Conservation of momentum and energy problem (Please check if my setup is right)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving the conservation of momentum and energy in an elastic collision scenario. The original poster presents their setup, including equations for momentum and energy, while seeking validation of their approach.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to separate momentum into x and y components, resulting in two momentum equations and one energy equation. They express uncertainty about the correctness of their equations and seek feedback before proceeding with further calculations.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide feedback on the equations presented, with one noting a potential correction regarding the sign in the x-momentum equation. The conversation reflects a collaborative effort to clarify the setup without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions having three unknowns and three equations, indicating a belief that the problem may be solvable. There is an emphasis on the elastic nature of the collision, which allows for the use of conservation of energy.

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Homework Statement


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Homework Equations


m1v1i + m2v2i = m1v1f + m2v2f (Conservation of momentum)
(1/2)m2*(v2i)^2 + (1/2)m1*(v1i)^2 = (1/2)m2*(v2f)^2 + (1/2)m1*(v1f)^2 (Conservation of energy)

The Attempt at a Solution


I separated the momentum into x and y components and got 2 equations
I used the conservation of energy (can be used since its elastic) and got another equation
-I have 3 unknowns and three equations...which gives me hope that this is solvable lol

Homework Statement


Here are my equations:
Momentum for x:
0 = m2*v2f*sin(theta) + m1*v1f*sin(75)
unknowns here: theta, v2f, v1f

Momentum for y:
m2*v2i = m2*v2f*cos(theta) + m1*v1f*cos(75)
unknowns here: theta, v2f, v1f

Conservation of energy equation:
(1/2)m2*(v2i)^2 = (1/2)m2*(v2f)^2 + (1/2)m1*(v1f)^2
unknowns here: v2f, v1fCan you guys see if these equations are right before I start using the tedious algebra involved in this.
 
Last edited:
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The x-momentum equation should have a minus sign before the first term, but other than that, your set-up looks fine.
 
oh so..
0 = -m2*v2f*sin(theta) + m1*v1f*sin(75)?
Minus sign just because it goes to the left right?
And thank you!
 
Right.
 

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