Collision of Two Particles: Elastic Momentum Transfer Formula | Help Needed

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the collision of two particles with masses m1 and m2, moving along a straight line with initial velocities u and v. The original poster seeks assistance in proving the formula for the momentum transferred from the first particle to the second during an elastic collision, while considering the conservation of linear momentum and kinetic energy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the momentum transfer formula using the conditions of an elastic collision and the equations for the velocities after the collision. Some participants question the steps taken and request to see the work involved in the calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion has progressed with the original poster providing a detailed attempt at the solution, which appears to lead to the desired formula. A participant acknowledges the completion of the proof, indicating a productive exchange of ideas. However, there is no explicit consensus on the correctness of the approach, as further verification may be needed.

Contextual Notes

The original poster is working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the amount of guidance provided by other participants. The discussion reflects an exploration of the assumptions and definitions related to elastic collisions.

subho123
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transfer of momentum...help needed ?

Homework Statement



two particles of masses m1 & m2 are moving along a straight line with velocities u & v respectively. they collide to each other..if the collision between them is an elastic collision then show that momentum transferred from first particle to second particle is 2m1*m2(u - v)/m1 + m2...


Homework Equations



I am trying to use the condition of an elastic collision...their linear momentum & kinetic energy will be conserved..but the proof is not coming out...please help me with it...

if the velocity of first particle after collision is u1 & the same of the 2nd particle is v1 then we know, u1 = (m1 - m2)*u/(m1 + m2) + 2m2*v/(m1 + m2)

v1 = 2m1*u/(m1 + m2) - (m1 - m2)*v/(m1 + m2)

The Attempt at a Solution


 
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Show your work.

ehild
 


v1 = 2m1*u/(m1 +m2) - (m1 - m2)*v/(m1+m2)

momentum of the 2nd particle after collision

m2v1 = 2m1*m2*u/(m1+m2) - (m1-m2)*m2*v/(m1+m2)

transfer of momemtum

m2v1 - m2v = 2m1*m2*u/(m1+m2) - (m1-m2)*m2*v/(m1+m2) - m2v

[2m1*m2*u - (m1-m2)*m2*v - (m1+m2)*m2v]/(m1+m2)

[2m1*m2*u - (m1-m2)*m2*v - m1*m2*v - m2^2v]/(m1+m2)

[2m1*m2*u - m1*m2v + m2^2v - m1*m2*v - m2^2v]/(m1+m2)

[2m1*m2*u - 2m1*m2*v]/(m1+m2)

2m1*m2(u-v)/(m1+m2)


it is sloved

BTW thanks
 


Good job!

ehild
 

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