The Center of Momentum (CM) velocities of masses after a 2D elastic collision are anti-parallel due to the conservation of momentum and energy principles. In a perfectly elastic collision, the total momentum before and after the collision remains constant, resulting in velocities that are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction in the CM frame. The equation for CM velocity, CM_Velocity = (∑m_i*v_i)/(∑m_i), confirms that the velocities of the colliding particles are directly related and must balance out to maintain the system's momentum.
PREREQUISITESPhysics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of elastic collisions and momentum conservation in two-dimensional systems.
hsbhsb said:Homework Statement
Why are the Center of Momentum velocities of masses after a 2D elastic collision anti-parallel? (as in the following diagram)
Homework Equations
CM_Velocity = (∑m_i*v_i)/(∑m_i)
The Attempt at a Solution
This is not actually a problem I have to do. I am just looking for a proof of this fact. I have not been able to find one online, but have probably been looking in the wrong places!