Conservation of momentum in an inelastic collision

From there, use the given information about the angles and speeds to solve for the unknowns. In summary, to solve this problem, you need to use the conservation of momentum equations and the given information about angles and speeds to determine the unknowns.
  • #1
Runaway
48
0

Homework Statement



Two identical sticky masses m are moving in
the xy-plane, with their momenta at an angle
of φ with one another. They are each moving
at the same speed v when they collide at the
origin of the coordinates and stick together.
After the collision, the masses move at an
angle −θ2 with respect to the +x axis at
speed v/2

a. pi/3
b. zero
c. 140°
d. 2pi/3
e. 110°
f. 45°

fuz6t1.jpg


Homework Equations


p=mv
pi=pf

The Attempt at a Solution


I have no idea where to start
 
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  • #2
There are no external forces, so you know that momentum is conserved. Start by writing the conservation of momentum equations for both the x and y directions, breaking vectors into components if necessary.
 

1. What is conservation of momentum in an inelastic collision?

Conservation of momentum in an inelastic collision is a fundamental principle in physics that states that the total momentum of a system before a collision is equal to the total momentum after the collision, even if the objects stick together or deform during the collision.

2. How is the conservation of momentum in an inelastic collision different from an elastic collision?

In an elastic collision, the total kinetic energy of the system is conserved, while in an inelastic collision, some of the kinetic energy is lost due to the deformation or sticking together of the objects. However, the total momentum of the system is still conserved in both types of collisions.

3. What factors affect the conservation of momentum in an inelastic collision?

The conservation of momentum in an inelastic collision is affected by the mass and velocity of the objects involved, as well as the type of interaction between them. Other factors such as external forces and energy losses due to friction can also impact the outcome of the collision.

4. Can the conservation of momentum be violated in an inelastic collision?

No, the conservation of momentum is a fundamental law of physics and cannot be violated. In an inelastic collision, the total momentum of the system may change due to the loss of kinetic energy, but the overall momentum before and after the collision remains constant.

5. How is the conservation of momentum in an inelastic collision applied in real-world scenarios?

The conservation of momentum in an inelastic collision is applied in various real-world scenarios, such as car crashes, sports, and industrial machinery. It is also important in understanding the behavior of particles in nuclear reactions and in the study of celestial bodies, such as planets and stars.

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