Conservation of momentum of collision

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the conservation of momentum in a collision between two objects of differing masses, specifically mass m with speed v1 and mass M with speed U1. After the collision, the smaller mass m moves with speed v2 and the larger mass M moves with speed U2. The correct equation for momentum conservation is expressed as Mu1 - mv1 = Mu2 + mv2. The participant Sander confirmed that a previous misunderstanding stemmed from an error in their reference material.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly momentum.
  • Familiarity with the equations of motion and collision dynamics.
  • Knowledge of mass and velocity relationships in physics.
  • Ability to interpret and manipulate algebraic equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of elastic and inelastic collisions in physics.
  • Learn about momentum conservation in multi-object systems.
  • Explore real-world applications of momentum conservation in engineering.
  • Review advanced topics in collision theory, such as impulse and momentum transfer.
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Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding collision dynamics and momentum conservation principles.

sander2798
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Hey everyone,

I have a little physics space problem I can't manage to solve, so I hoped someone would be able to help me here.

This is the problem:
We have an object with mass m and speed v1 approaching an other object with mass M and speed U1. The two objects are moving in opposite direction directly towards each other. After the collision the objects are moving with the following speeds in the same direction, because mass M is a million times bigger than m and therefore only get's slowed down. Mass m1 with speed v2, and mass M with speed U2. What is the equation for the conservation of momentum for this collision?

Does anyone know the answer on this? I'd be really thankful if anyone is able to help me.

Sander.
 
Last edited:
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sander2798 said:
Hey everyone,

I have a little physics space problem I can't manage to solve, so I hoped someone would be able to help me here.

This is the problem:
We have an object with mass m and speed v1 approaching an other object with mass M and speed U1. The two objects are moving in opposite direction directly towards each other. After the collision the objects are moving with the following speeds in the same direction, because mass M is a million times bigger than m and therefore only get's slowed down. Mass m1 with speed v2, and mass M with speed U2. What is the equation for the conservation of momentum for this collision?

Does anyone know the answer on this? I'd be really thankful if anyone is able to help me.

Sander.

Mu1-mv1 = Mu2+mv2
 
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virgil1612 said:
Mu1-mv1 = Mu2+mv2
Thanks a lot, appearantly there was a mistake in my book, thanks.
 

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