Collision between two identical objects

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    Collision Momentum
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a hypothetical scenario involving two identical cars colliding either with each other or with a concrete wall. Participants explore the implications of kinetic energy loss in both collision scenarios and consider variations in mass and speed.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested, Homework-related, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that if the same amount of kinetic energy is lost in both collisions, it may already provide an answer to the question of which collision is preferable.
  • Others question whether the scenario is intended as a schoolwork problem, indicating a potential educational context.
  • A participant asks how the scenario can be proven mathematically, suggesting the use of energy conservation and momentum conservation principles.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the implications of the kinetic energy loss or the mathematical approach to the problem. Multiple viewpoints regarding the nature of the question and its educational context remain present.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding the conservation of kinetic energy and momentum that are not fully explored. The discussion does not clarify how variations in mass or speed would affect the outcomes.

staralfur
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Cars A and B have the sama mass.
A and B are traveling at 60 mph toward each other. They have two options: hitting the other car head on, or swerving into a massive concrete wall, also head on. (assume the same amount of KE is lost by your car in both collisions.) Should the drivers hit the other car or the wall?
What if the masses or speeds would not be the same?
 
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staralfur said:
assume the same amount of KE is lost by your car in both collisions
Doesn't the above already answer the question?

 
staralfur said:
Cars A and B have the sama mass.
A and B are traveling at 60 mph toward each other. They have two options: hitting the other car head on, or swerving into a massive concrete wall, also head on. (assume the same amount of KE is lost by your car in both collisions.) Should the drivers hit the other car or the wall?
What if the masses or speeds would not be the same?

Welcome to the PF.

Is this a schoolwork question?
 
I saw this on a list of conceptual physics questions. Might be someone's schoolwork but not mine :)
 
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How can this be proven mathmatically. Can it be done using energy conservation and momentum conservation?
 

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