Collision in two dimensions problems

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a two-dimensional collision problem involving three identical coins (A, B, and C) with a diameter of 18.00mm, positioned at specific coordinates on the x,y-plane. The objective is to determine the angle at which coin Z must be pushed towards coin Y to ensure that after an elastic collision, it collides centrally with coin X. Key equations referenced include momentum conservation (m1(vi1 - vf1) = m2(vf2 - vi2)) and energy conservation (vi1 + vf1 = vf2 + vi2). The consensus is that the initial speed of Z does not affect the angle calculation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of elastic collisions in physics
  • Familiarity with two-dimensional coordinate systems
  • Knowledge of momentum and energy conservation principles
  • Basic geometry related to angles and vectors
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of elastic collisions in two dimensions
  • Learn how to apply momentum conservation equations in collision problems
  • Explore vector analysis to determine angles in collision scenarios
  • Investigate the effects of initial velocities on collision outcomes
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding collision dynamics in two dimensions, particularly in elastic collision scenarios.

madlin
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1. On a table (defining the x,y-plane laying 3 identical coins A,B and C with identical diameter of 18.00mm. The coordinates of their centers are Z(0,0), Y(60.0,0), X(60.0, 45.0) all given in mm.
Under what angle relative to the x-axis one has to push Z against Y so that Z performs after the collision with Y another central collision with X?
Assume elastic collision, neglect friction.




2. m1(vi1 - vf1) = m2(vf2 - vi2)
vi1 + vf1 = vf2 + vi2



The Attempt at a Solution


Homework Statement





Homework Equations





3. I really don't understand how to find the angle when we don't have the velocities.
 
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Hello madlin.

Increasing the initial speed of Z would be like speeding up a video of the whole process. So, the answer will not depend on the speed.
 

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