Elastic collision between 2 different masses

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around an elastic collision involving two different masses, focusing on the conservation of momentum and the relationship between angles in the collision scenario.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the use of momentum equations and the implications of angles in the collision. Questions arise regarding the necessity of separating momentum into components and the validity of the assumption that the angle between the two masses is 90°.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the relationship between the angles and the conservation of momentum. Some participants have provided guidance on considering momentum as a vector quantity, while others are questioning the assumptions made about the angles involved in the collision.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the angles derived from the tangent function and the assumption of a 90° angle between the two masses may not hold true for different mass scenarios, indicating a need for further clarification on these points.

Yeldarb
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Homework Statement


See picture

Homework Equations


p = p1 +p2
p = mv

The Attempt at a Solution


See picture, using equations for the velocity and using 90-tan-1(2) for the angle
 

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Do not forget that momentum is a vector quantity. Both of its components are conserved.
Why do you think that θ2=90-tan-1(2)?
 
ehild said:
Do not forget that momentum is a vector quantity. Both of its components are conserved.
Why do you think that θ2=90-tan-1(2)?
Does this mean that I need to use a px and a py equation? Does what I got help me at all? The picture shows tan(theta1)=2, so theta1= tan-1(2) and since the angle between the two should be 90, 90-theta1 =theta2

Thanks
 
Yeldarb said:
Does this mean that I need to use a px and a py equation? Does what I got help me at all? The picture shows tan(theta1)=2, so theta1= tan-1(2) and since the angle between the two should be 90, 90-theta1 =theta2

Thanks
What makes you think the angle between their directions is 90° ?

q-png.91722.png
 
Yeldarb said:
Does this mean that I need to use a px and a py equation? Does what I got help me at all? The picture shows tan(theta1)=2, so theta1= tan-1(2) and since the angle between the two should be 90, 90-theta1 =theta2

Thanks
Yes, you need an equation for px and an other one for py. NO, the two angles do not add up to 90°. It happens if the two masses are equal.
 

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