Elastic collision of neon atom problem

AI Thread Summary
In the discussion about the elastic collision of a neon atom with another atom at rest, the problem involves determining the mass of the unknown atom using conservation of momentum and energy equations. The neon atom, with a mass of 20.0 u, collides at a 57.9° angle, while the unknown atom moves at a -45.4° angle post-collision. Participants suggest using the law of sines to relate the velocities and angles, and emphasize the need to isolate the unknown mass through algebraic manipulation of the equations. The conversation highlights the challenge of having more unknowns than equations, but suggests that substituting variables can simplify the problem. Ultimately, the solution hinges on careful application of physics principles and algebraic techniques.
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Homework Statement


A neon atom (m = 20.0 u) makes a perfectly elastic collision with another atom at rest. After the impact, the neon atom travels away at a 57.9° angle from its original direction and the unknown atom travels away at a -45.4° angle. What is the mass (in u) of the unknown atom? [Hint: You can use the law of sines.]

variables
m = neon = 20 u
M = mass of unknown
\theta = 57.9°
\phi = 45.4°
v = initial velocity of neon
v' = final velocity of neon
V = final velocity of unknown


Homework Equations


I've set up conservation of momentum equations for both directions, and the energy equation, but I'm stuck with more unknowns than equations


The Attempt at a Solution


mv2=mv'2+MV2
mv = mv'cos\theta + MVcos\phi
0 = mv'sin\theta - MVsin\phi

using a momentum vector sum diagram and law of sines? I got
mv/sin(180-\theta-\phi)=mv'/sin(\phi)

not sure how that helps but I guess I can then express v' in terms of v, eliminating one variable

no idea where to go from here
 
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Everything looks OK so far I think. You can also use the law of sines to get the other "side" of the triangle. The problem is now just one of algebra. I would pick one equation (maybe the energy one), and substitute in for the variables you don't want and then isolate M.
 
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