Deriving the Inelastic 3-Body Equation for Colliding Balls with Different Masses

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the appropriate equation for a 3 body inelastic collision involving two balls of different masses falling onto a stationary ground. The suggestion is made to either use the momentum before and after equation or to calculate the center of mass, but the latter may only work for a two body collision. The person asking the question is also working on a research essay about varying the mass of the balls and needs to incorporate a collision with the floor into the equation.
  • #1
GreenSabbath
17
0
What equation should I use to represent a 3 body inelastic equation .. two ball of different masses falling together and colliding with the stationary ground.

And any hints on deriving the two body equation shown below
 

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  • #2
momentum before equals momentum after.

or you could calculate the centre of mass. but that would only work for a two body collision (i think).
 
  • #3
Why don't you describe the exact problem you are trying to solve?
 
  • #4
Im writing a research essay on balls of different mass falling from a fixed height onto the floor. Divided into two parts, I first vary the mass of the top ball and then for the next part I vary the mass of the bigger base ball. No I am using the general inelastic equation.. attached above and I need to go about first deriving it and then incoporating a collision with the floor. So a 3 body collision?
 

FAQ: Deriving the Inelastic 3-Body Equation for Colliding Balls with Different Masses

What is a "3 body collision"?

A "3 body collision" refers to a scenario in which three objects collide with each other, resulting in a complex interaction between their masses and velocities.

How is a "3 body collision" different from a "2 body collision"?

A "3 body collision" involves three objects colliding with each other, while a "2 body collision" only involves two objects colliding. This means that the forces and resulting motions in a "3 body collision" are more complicated and unpredictable compared to a "2 body collision".

What are some real-life examples of "3 body collisions"?

Some real-life examples of "3 body collisions" include car accidents involving three or more vehicles, collisions between three or more particles in nuclear reactions, and interactions between three or more celestial bodies in space.

How do scientists study and model "3 body collisions"?

Scientists use mathematical equations and computer simulations to study and model "3 body collisions". These models take into account factors such as mass, velocity, and the laws of physics to predict the outcome of a "3 body collision".

What are the potential effects of a "3 body collision"?

The effects of a "3 body collision" can vary depending on the masses and velocities of the objects involved. In some cases, it can result in an explosion or break apart the objects involved. In other cases, it can result in a new, larger object formed from the collision.

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