Conservation of Momentum problem-don't understand the solution

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a conservation of momentum problem involving two air hockey pucks, where puck A (0.025 kg) collides with puck B (0.050 kg) at rest. The initial velocity of puck A is 5.5 m/s, and the collision is not head-on. Participants emphasize the need for a clear diagram and the specific equations used to solve for the final speeds of both pucks after the collision, particularly highlighting the importance of momentum conservation in both x and y directions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of conservation of momentum principles
  • Familiarity with vector components in physics
  • Knowledge of basic collision types (elastic and inelastic)
  • Ability to apply trigonometric functions to resolve angles
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the conservation of momentum equations in two dimensions
  • Study vector decomposition techniques for collision analysis
  • Learn how to draw and interpret collision diagrams
  • Explore examples of momentum conservation in elastic and inelastic collisions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and collision problems, as well as educators seeking to enhance their teaching methods in momentum conservation concepts.

skier07
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[SOLVED] Conservation of Momentum problem-don't understand the solution

Homework Statement



The drawing shows a collision between two pucks on an air-hockey table. Puck A has a mass of 0.025kg and is moving along the x-axis with a velocity of 5.5m/s. It makes a collision with puck B, which has a mass of 0.050kg and is initially at rest. The collision is not head-on. After the collision, the two pucks fly apart with the angles shown in the drawing. Find the final speed of (a) puck A and (b) puck B.

Homework Equations






The Attempt at a Solution


X direction:


Y direction:






Plug into (2)
 
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More Information?

skier07 said:

Homework Statement



After the collision, the two pucks fly apart with the angles shown in the drawing.

...

Plug into (2)

No one has posted yet to help you but I think that you should include the drawing and demonstrate what equation (2) is exactly. The lack of information makes your problem difficult to solve...
 

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