Can somebody check my answer for momentum

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a collision between a ball of mass M and a block of mass 3m, where the ball is moving horizontally at speed v and collides elastically with the block that is initially at rest. The goal is to determine the maximum angle through which the block swings after the collision.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the conservation of momentum and kinetic energy in elastic collisions, with some attempting to derive the velocities of the block and ball after the impact. There are questions regarding the correct application of these principles, particularly concerning the reference frames used for the velocities.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the conservation equations and highlighted potential errors in the original attempts. There is an ongoing exploration of the correct relationships between the velocities before and after the collision, with no explicit consensus reached on the final approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of using consistent reference frames when formulating the equations, and there are mentions of specific mnemonic devices used to remember the relationships between the velocities. The discussion reflects a range of interpretations and attempts to clarify the setup of the problem.

  • #31
toesockshoe said:
if this problem was completely inelastc would the masses stick together or something?
Yes. They would 'coalesce'.
 

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