Conservation of momentum basics

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the conservation of momentum in a head-on elastic collision involving two baseballs, where ball 1 is twice as heavy as ball 2. The initial speed of ball 1 is denoted as v1, and ball 2's initial speed is v2. After the collision, ball 1 travels at a speed of 7/5v1, leading to the derived equation v2 - 1.8v1 = vf, where vf represents the final velocity of ball 2. The conclusion reached is that 1.6v1 equals 2v2, highlighting the relationship between the speeds of the two balls post-collision.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of elastic collisions
  • Familiarity with the conservation of momentum principle
  • Basic knowledge of kinetic energy conservation
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of elastic and inelastic collisions
  • Learn how to apply the conservation of momentum in multi-object systems
  • Explore kinetic energy calculations in elastic collisions
  • Investigate real-world applications of momentum conservation in sports physics
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of momentum conservation and elastic collisions in mechanics.

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Two baseballs undergo a head-on collision. Ball 1 is twice as heavy as ball 2. Ball 1 is traveling at an initial speed of v1, while ball 2 had an initial speed of v2. Elastic collision. If ball 1 travels at a speed of 7/5v1 after impact, what is the speed of ball 2?

Conservation of momentum led me to this equation:

v2 - 1.8v1 = vf

(vf is the velocity of ball 2)

The answer is 1.6v1 = 2v2

I know there is some basic idea that i am missing...
 
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Elastic collision, so kinetic energy is conserved as well.
 

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