Elastic collision between rod and ball

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on an elastic collision between a rod of mass M and a ball of mass m, where the ball strikes the rod perpendicularly at its center on a frictionless surface. Key questions include determining the axis of rotation for the rod post-collision, calculating the angular velocity around this axis, and finding the velocity of the center of mass of the rod. Participants agree that the rod does not rotate after the collision, and the approach to proving this involves exploring the implications of assuming rotation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of elastic collisions in physics
  • Familiarity with concepts of angular momentum
  • Knowledge of center of mass calculations
  • Basic principles of rotational dynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of elastic collisions in detail
  • Learn about angular momentum conservation in collisions
  • Explore the calculation of center of mass for composite systems
  • Investigate the conditions under which rotation occurs in collisions
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of collisions and rotational motion in mechanics.

tilaib
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Homework Statement



A rod of mass M is lying on a flat frictionless surface. A small ball of mass m and
velocity v collides with the rod in the center at the rod at right angle to the rod.
The collision is elastic.


Homework Equations



a) Where is the axis of rotation for the rod after the collision?
b) What is the angular velocity around the axis of rotation after this collision?
c) What is the velocity of the center of mass of the rod after the collision?

The Attempt at a Solution



As far as I can see, there should be no rotation. But how do I show this?
 
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You might assume that there is a rotation, then in the process of calculating what the rotation would be, you might find there is none. Many proofs are done this way in that it might be hard to prove something is always true but easy to fine one example of a falsehood to disprove your original hypothesis.
 
tilaib, I agree with barryj, but it does seem strange that the question asks about rotation twice. Are you quite certain you are reading the statement of the set-up correctly?
 

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