How Does Elastic Collision Work in Two Dimensions?

AI Thread Summary
In the discussion about elastic collisions in two dimensions, a hockey puck A strikes puck B, which is initially at rest, resulting in puck A being deflected at 30 degrees and puck B moving at a 45-degree angle. The participants express confusion about how to calculate the final velocities of both pucks and the kinetic energy dissipated during the collision. They emphasize the need to break down the velocities into x and y components to apply conservation laws effectively. The conversation highlights the importance of using the correct equations for momentum and energy conservation in elastic collisions. Understanding these principles is crucial for solving the problem accurately.
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Homework Statement


A hockey puck B rests on a smooth surface of ice and is struck by a second puck A , which was originally traveling at 40.0 m/s and which is deflected 30.0 degrees from its original direction. Puck B acquires a velocity at a 45.0 degree angle to the original direction of A. The pucks have the same mass.
-Compute the speed of puck A after the collision.
-Compute the speed of puck B after the collision.
-What fraction of the original kinetic energy of puck A dissipates during the collision?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


This has got me really confused. I don't even know where to begin. I drew a diagram thought I was supposed to find the x and y components of A to get the final velocity of A and then change in A equals the negative change in B, but I'm not getting it. Please help!
 
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what diagram did you draw?
what equations would you need to satisfy?
 
My diagram shows puck A moving in the positive x direction at 40 m/s and colliding with puck B. After the collision puck A is deflected 30.0 degrees relative to the positive x-axis at some final velocity. Puck B moves from rest to some final velocity 45 degrees relative to the negative x axis.
I'm not exactly sure which equation(s) I need. I'm assume because the masses are unknown but equal, the equation change in velocity of A is equal to the negative change in the velocity of B.
 
In general, what happens in a collision?
 

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