Factors that determine direction an object will move after an elastic collision?

[pebbles]

Initial velocities and masses of the objects colliding...?

 

[catkin]

Yes, if they are known then the velocities after collision (which are vectors so include direction) can be determined.

 

[ogb p]

The direction an object will move after an elastic collision is determined by multiple factors, including the initial velocities and masses of the objects involved in the collision. The initial velocities of the objects will determine their momentum, which is a crucial factor in determining the direction of their movement after the collision. If the objects have equal and opposite initial velocities, they will cancel each other out and there will be no net movement in any direction.

The masses of the objects will also play a significant role in determining the direction of their movement. In an elastic collision, the objects will exchange energy and momentum, but their total momentum will remain the same. This means that the object with a larger mass will have a lower velocity after the collision compared to the object with a smaller mass. As a result, the direction of movement will also be influenced by the relative masses of the objects.

It is also important to consider the angle of collision between the objects. The angle at which the objects collide will determine the direction in which they will move after the collision. For example, if the objects collide head-on, they will likely continue moving in opposite directions, while a glancing collision may result in the objects moving at an angle to their original paths.

In summary, the direction an object will move after an elastic collision is determined by the initial velocities and masses of the objects, as well as the angle at which they collide. It is essential for scientists to carefully consider these factors when studying and predicting the outcomes of elastic collisions.