Calculating Resultant Velocity of Colliding Particles - Homework Check

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The discussion centers on calculating the resultant velocity of two colliding particles with masses 1 and 2, moving with velocities 4i and i-√3j, respectively. The correct application of the conservation of momentum equation confirms that the resultant particle's velocity is indeed 2(i - j/√3). The final expression can be simplified by dividing each term by 3, acknowledging that 3 equals √3 * √3. The participants validate the approach and provide feedback on the representation of the final velocity vector.

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Quick homework check please!

Two particles of masses 1 and 2 are moving with velocities 4i and i-√3j on a smooth table. They collide and stick together.
Show that the resultant particle has velocity 2(i-j /√3)
My solution so far:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c109/mathsnerd/e1f01885.jpg"
Have I approached the question correctly by using the conservation of momentum equation and is my last line the same as the answer given in the question? :confused: I'm not too fond of cancelling square roots...
Thanks for your time!
 
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Looks OK to me. (The arrow you drew to represent the final velocity isn't pointing in the right direction, though. :smile: )

To simplify the last expression, divide each term by 3, realizing that [itex]3 = \sqrt{3} * \sqrt{3}[/itex].
 
oh, thanks! :biggrin: glad to know I am doing it right :smile:
 

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