What is the Angle of Impact Between Two Masses Rebounding at a 43° Angle?

In summary, there is a angle at which the balls hit each other, and it depends on the mass, velocity, and angle of the balls.
  • #1
bobie
Gold Member
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Homework Statement



A ball A hits another ball B 3 times more massive and rebounds at an angle λ = 43°.1... (cosλ =5/√52).

Can anyone determine the angle of impact? is it possible , at all?
 
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  • #2
Depends on the context. i.e. what is the angle with respect to?
You'd usually want to use conservation of momentum - which means you need more than one momentum vector.
 
  • #3
Simon Bridge said:
. what is the angle with respect to?

The angle of impact λ is the angle made by the trajectory of ball A with the line joining the centres of mass of the two balls CA-CB
 
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  • #4
bobie said:
The angle of impact λ is the angle made by the trajectory of ball A with the line joining the centres of mass of the two balls CA-CB
You've already used λ for the rebound angle. Call it something else.
So draw yourself a diagram of the impact, invent symbols as necessary for the masses, velocities and angles, and write down the equations for conservation of momentum in the co-ordinate directions.
 
  • #5
haruspex said:
draw yourself a diagram of the impact, invent symbols as necessary for the masses, velocities and angles, and write down the equations for conservation of momentum in the co-ordinate directions.
Isn't there a formula to find directly one angle knowing the other one?
It shouldn't be difficult to work one if in principle it is possibel to find it, right?

Thanks for four help
 
  • #6
Yes there is - however, it is poor practice to do physics by memorizing formulas: there are just too many of them.
It is much better to get into the habit of deriving your formulas from the physics in front of you.

Besides, giving you the formula, in this case, would amount to "doing your homework for you"; which we like to avoid.
 
  • #7
bobie said:
Isn't there a formula to find directly one angle knowing the other one?
It shouldn't be difficult to work one if in principle it is possibel to find it, right?
That should result from the momentum equations. Write them out, solve them, post how far you get.
 
  • #8
Simon Bridge said:
Besides, giving you the formula, in this case, would amount to "doing your homework for you"; which we like to avoid.
Hi Simon, it is not homework (no school) , as usual I am speculating. I was just wondering why it is never mentioned.

I'll work out the formula by myself, it shouldn't be difficult.
Thanks
 

1. What is the angle of impact?

The angle of impact is the angle at which an object or projectile hits a surface or target. It is typically measured in degrees and can impact the force and direction of the object's motion.

2. How do you calculate the angle of impact?

The angle of impact can be calculated using trigonometry. First, measure the distance from the point of impact to the target and the height of the target. Then, use the inverse tangent function to find the angle. The formula is: angle = arctan(height/distance).

3. What factors can affect the angle of impact?

The angle of impact can be affected by various factors such as the velocity and trajectory of the object, the shape and texture of the target, and any external forces acting on the object.

4. Why is finding the angle of impact important?

Finding the angle of impact is important for understanding the mechanics of a collision or impact. It can also help determine the cause and severity of an accident, aid in forensic investigations, and inform the design of protective structures.

5. Can the angle of impact be estimated without precise measurements?

Yes, in some cases, the angle of impact can be estimated without precise measurements. For example, if the impact creates a visible dent or deformation on the target, the angle can be approximated based on the direction and shape of the damage. However, for more accurate results, precise measurements should be taken.

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