Calculating the Angle for a Collision of Two Particles

In summary, the problem involves two particles, A and B, moving along the x and y axes respectively. Particle A has a constant velocity of 2.8 m/s along the y-axis and particle B has a constant acceleration of 0.42 m/s^2 along the x-axis. The question asks for the angle theta between the positive y-axis and the direction of motion of particle B that will result in a collision between the two particles. To solve this problem, you need to come up with equations for the positions of particles A and B as functions of time and then use these equations to find the conditions for a collision.
  • #1
AnnaSuxCalc
55
0

Homework Statement



Particle A moves along the line y = 29 m with a constant velocity of magnitude 2.8 m/s and directed parallel to the x axis. At the instant particle A passes the y axis, particle B leaves the origin with zero initial speed and constant acceleration of magnitude 0.42 m/s2. What angle θ between and the positive direction of the y-axis would result in a collision?

Homework Equations



x = x0 + v0xt + 1/2 (axt2)

y = y0 + v0yt + 1/2 (ayt2)

Particle A
y = 29
vx = 2.8
y0 = 29
a = 0

Particle B
v0 = 0
a = 0.42
y0 = 0
x0 = 0
 

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  • #2
AnnaSuxCalc said:

Homework Statement



Particle A moves along the line y = 29 m with a constant velocity of magnitude 2.8 m/s and directed parallel to the x axis. At the instant particle A passes the y axis, particle B leaves the origin with zero initial speed and constant acceleration of magnitude 0.42 m/s2. What angle θ between and the positive direction of the y-axis would result in a collision?


Homework Equations



x = x0 + v0xt + 1/2 (axt2)

y = y0 + v0yt + 1/2 (ayt2)

Particle A
y = 29
vx = 2.8
y0 = 29
a = 0

Particle B
v0 = 0
a = 0.42
y0 = 0
x0 = 0

PLEASE HELP I've been stuck on this question for DAYS!
 
  • #3
You need to come up with equations giving the x and y positions of A and B as functions of time.

Use the equations you have to get expressions of xa(t),ya(t),xb(t), and yb(t).

Then, what conditions do you need for the two projectiles to collide? You can use these conditions to eliminate the parameter t and solve for theta.
 

1. What is a collision of two particles?

A collision of two particles occurs when two particles come into contact with each other and interact, resulting in a change in their velocities and/or directions.

2. What factors affect the outcome of a collision between two particles?

The outcome of a collision between two particles is influenced by factors such as the mass, velocity, and angle of approach of the particles, as well as the type and strength of the forces between them.

3. How is the energy of a collision between two particles calculated?

The total energy of a collision between two particles can be calculated using the conservation of energy principle, which states that the total energy before the collision is equal to the total energy after the collision.

4. Can the outcome of a collision between two particles be predicted?

The outcome of a collision between two particles can be predicted using mathematical models and simulations based on the principles of conservation of momentum and energy. However, there can be unpredictable factors such as external forces and quantum effects that may affect the outcome.

5. How do scientists study collisions between particles?

Scientists use various methods to study collisions between particles, including particle accelerators, computer simulations, and mathematical models. These methods allow them to observe and analyze the behavior of particles during collisions and to make predictions about the outcomes.

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