Master Elastic Collision Problems: Basic Help | Homework Solution

[fluidistic]

Homework Statement

Some days ago and specially yesterday I realized I have a strong weakness when it comes to elastic collision problems. Unfortunately I disregarded it and I couldn't finish an exercise in a test today.

Homework Equations

Linear momentum is conserved (\vec{P_{i}}=\vec{P_f}}) and so is the kinetic energy of the system. (Two bodies)

The Attempt at a Solution

Well in fact say you have 2 particles, m_1 and m_2. m_2 is initially at rest while m_1 has a speed of \frac{4m}{s}.
If m_1 hits m_2, what would be the speed of m_2?

I get that m_1v_1=m_1v_1'+m_2v_2' [1]. One equation, two unknowns: v_1' and v_2'.
Have I to work it out using the equation of the kinetic energy? \frac{m_1v_1^2}{2}=\frac{m_1v_1^2'}{2}+\frac{m_2v_2^2'}{2}. I solve for v_1' and back substitute it in [1]. Is it the way to find out v_1' and v_2'?
If yes then I thought about it during the test but I was too lazy to do it... (it doesn't count for my average but still, I should have done that).
Thanks for your confirmation or infirmation.

 

[iseidthat]

I did a lab that involved elastic equations and this site helped me visualized some of the problems. I hope it helps:
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/Hbase/colsta.html

 

[fluidistic]

Thank you very much iseidthat!
That doesn't answer my question I think, but at least I've learned that v_1'=\left( \frac{m_1-m_2}{m_1+m_2}\right) v_1 and that v_2' can be determinate by a given formula.
Ok, I'll try to answer my question by my own.