Factors that determine direction an object will move after an elastic collision?

Thread starter pebbles
Start date Oct 25, 2007
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Collision Direction Elastic Elastic collision Factors

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The direction an object will move after an elastic collision is primarily determined by the initial velocities and masses of the colliding objects. Knowing these factors allows for the calculation of post-collision velocities, which are vector quantities that include direction. The conservation of momentum and kinetic energy principles also play crucial roles in predicting the outcome of the collision. Accurate measurements of these variables are essential for precise predictions. Understanding these dynamics is fundamental in physics and engineering applications.

Oct 25, 2007

pebbles

Initial velocities and masses of the objects colliding...?

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Nov 5, 2007

catkin

Yes, if they are known then the velocities after collision (which are vectors so include direction) can be determined.

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