From the conservation of linear momentum of closed system,
Initial momentum = final momentum
Mass of the student, M = 59 kg
Mass of the laser boat, m = 42 kg
Initial speed of student + laser boat, u =0
Final speed of laser boat, v = 1.5 m/s
Final speed of the student = V
(M+m) u =M V +m v
0 = (59 kg) V + (42 kg) (1.5m/s)
V = - 1.06 m/s
Thus, the speed of the student is 1.06 m/s in the opposite direction of the motion of boat.
