Center of mass oblique collisions

COM frame. The scattering angle in the lab frame is twice as big, and this is always true.In summary, the statement that the scattering angle of the first particle in the laboratory frame is half of the scattering angle in the center of mass frame is only true in the special case of equal masses and elastic collisions. Otherwise, the scattering angle in the lab frame is always twice as big as in the COM frame.
  • #1
jophys
1
0
Hi,

in terms of oblique collisions, COM frames and laboratory frames, is this statements ALWAYS true?

"The scattering angle of the first particle in the laboratory frame is half of the scattering angle in the center of mass frame."

Please elaborate if you know, thanks in advance!
 
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  • #2
I
jophys said:
Hi,

in terms of oblique collisions, COM frames and laboratory frames, is this statements ALWAYS true?

"The scattering angle of the first particle in the laboratory frame is half of the scattering angle in the center of mass frame."

Please elaborate if you know, thanks in advance!
Hi Jophys - welcome to PF!

This is a special case. It would be true only if the colliding masses are equal and the collisions are elastic.

AM
 

1. What is the center of mass in an oblique collision?

The center of mass in an oblique collision is the point where the mass of the two colliding objects can be considered to be concentrated. It is the point where the net force acting on the system is zero.

2. How is the center of mass calculated in an oblique collision?

The center of mass can be calculated by finding the individual masses and their respective distances from a chosen reference point, and then using the formula: center of mass = (m1x1 + m2x2)/(m1 + m2), where m represents mass and x represents distance.

3. How does the angle of collision affect the center of mass in an oblique collision?

The angle of collision can affect the position of the center of mass in an oblique collision. If the two objects collide head-on, the center of mass will remain at the midpoint between the two objects. However, if the collision occurs at an angle, the center of mass will shift towards the heavier object.

4. What is the significance of the center of mass in an oblique collision?

The center of mass is important in oblique collisions because it helps us understand the behavior of the system as a whole. The motion of the objects involved in the collision can be described in terms of the motion of the center of mass, making calculations and predictions easier.

5. Can the center of mass be located outside of the physical boundaries of the objects in an oblique collision?

Yes, the center of mass can be located outside of the physical boundaries of the objects in an oblique collision. This is because the center of mass takes into account the distribution of mass within an object, rather than just its physical size and shape.

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