Deriving speed equations | Elastic collision

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on deriving speed equations for elastic collisions, emphasizing the conservation of momentum with the equations provided. The user is attempting to express final speeds in terms of initial speed and masses but is struggling to find a necessary relationship. They express uncertainty about using energy considerations in this context. Clarification is sought on how to relate the variables effectively to solve for final speeds. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding both momentum and energy conservation in elastic collisions.
I_Try_Math
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Homework Statement
Derive the equations giving the final speeds for two objects that collide elastically, with the mass of the objects being ##m_1## and ##m_2## and the initial speeds being ##v_{1,i}## and ##v_{2,i}=0## (i.e., second object is initially stationary).
Relevant Equations
##p_i = p_f##
So far I've got:

##p_{1,i} + p_{2,i} = p_{1,f} + p_{2,f}##

##p_{1,i} + 0 = p_{1,f} + p_{2,f}##
##m_1v_{1,i} = m_1v_{1,f} + m_2v_{2,f}##

According to the textbook, the final speeds should be written in terms of ##v_{1,i}, m_1, and m_2##. It looks like I need another way to relate everything with an equation to solve for the final speeds but I'm drawing a blank. It doesn't seem like I can use energy considerations? Any hints are appreciated.
 
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I_Try_Math said:
. It doesn't seem like I can use energy considerations?
Why not?
" two objects that collide elastically"
 
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