An Alternate Approach to Solving 2-Dimensional Elastic Collisions

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on alternative approaches to understanding 2-dimensional elastic collisions, particularly in the context of momentum and related physical phenomena. Participants explore the implications of elasticity theory, the relationship between refraction and momentum, and potential adaptations of the theory for different scenarios such as Compton scattering.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the transient elastic deformation of bodies during collisions should be considered, invoking the Theory of Elasticity, which includes parameters like Young's modulus and Poisson ratio.
  • Another participant clarifies that their focus is on fully elastic 2D collisions, where transient deformation is not typically addressed, and emphasizes the need for accurate examples, such as gravitational slingshots, rather than car collisions.
  • A participant introduces the idea of relating refraction to momentum and proposes incorporating wave functions to account for particle dynamics during collisions, suggesting that expanding or contracting particles could add complexity to the model.
  • One participant expresses interest in adapting the discussed theory for Compton scattering but notes challenges in understanding the implications of elastic collision impulses in the context of photon/electron interactions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit differing views on the relevance of transient deformation in elastic collisions, with some advocating for its inclusion while others maintain a focus on fully elastic scenarios without such considerations. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the adaptation of the theory for Compton scattering.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the elasticity of collisions and the definitions of terms like "elastic collision impulse." The scope of the discussion does not fully address the complexities of transient deformation or the specifics of particle interactions in different contexts.

neilparker62
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
Education Advisor
Insights Author
Messages
1,201
Reaction score
711
Last edited by a moderator:
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: PhDeezNutz, Hrishikesh Edke and Greg Bernhardt
Physics news on Phys.org
If you are looking at the elastic collision of two bodies, shouldn't you be solving for the transient elastic deformation of the bodies during the collision using Theory of Elasticity, involving Young's modulus, density, and Poisson ratio of the two bodies?
 
Thanks for the comment / query but I'm really not doing much more than follow the basic theory of 1-dimensional elastic collisions in which transient deformation is not usually dealt with. For example a bouncing ball deforms when it hits the floor but the energy is lost and then immediately regained. Very specifically in this article we are dealing with fully elastic 2D collisions (coefficient of restitution = 1). Have requested the graphic being used gets changed as it may create the wrong impression - car collisions are not at all elastic! Gravitational slingshots might be more pertinent examples of what's being described here.
 
Graphic has been changed - thanks Greg!
 
Great article, never thought about the relationship between refraction and momentum. Another amazing relationship is to apply a wave function to one of the particle sizes. Let one of the particles expand and contract at a certain frequency which adds to the dynamics of the collision (ie. if expanding or contracting, the particle will have another aspect to the collision). This extends the refraction/momentum model to include diffraction around edges.
 
Thanks for your kind comment - what I had been trying to do is see if somehow the theory can be adapted for Compton scattering. But haven't made much progress as yet. Can't quite figure what ##2 \mu \Delta v## (elastic collision impulse) looks like when we're talking about a photon/electron collision.
 

Similar threads

Undergrad An Alternative Approach to Solving Collision Problems
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
6K
Undergrad Moving Spacecraft propellent less?
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K
High School Alternative elastic collision formula / physical interpretation
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Undergrad Elastic collision in 2 dimensions
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
2K
High School Understanding Physics for Coding Collision of 2 Balls
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
4K
Undergrad Collisions Toolkit: Impulse, Momentum & Energy Formulas
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Energy transfer in elastic collision.
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Graduate Calculate velocity of streams impinging at differing angles
  • · Replies 30 ·
2
Replies
30
Views
2K
Graduate Elastic collision considering the angle of impact
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Insights Massive Meets Massless: Compton Scattering Revisited
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K