Question about collisions in 2-dimensions

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a collision problem involving two billiard balls in a two-dimensional space. The original poster presents the scenario where one ball is moving towards a stationary ball, and after the collision, the first ball moves at a specific speed and angle. The goal is to determine the speed and direction of the second ball post-collision.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the conservation of momentum principle, suggesting the need to analyze the momentum in both x and y components separately. The original poster expresses confusion regarding the setup and application of this principle.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the conservation of momentum as the primary approach to solve the problem. Some participants have provided guidance on how to set up the equations, emphasizing the importance of treating vector components independently. The discussion is active, with multiple contributions addressing the original poster's confusion.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates a misunderstanding in applying the conservation of energy and momentum, highlighting a need for clarification on the correct methodology. There is also mention of specific values and angles that are part of the problem setup.

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A 0.150 kg billiard ball (A) is rolling toward a stationary billiard ball (B) at 10.0 m/s. After the collision, ball A rolls off at 7.7 m/s at an andle of 40.0 degrees clockwise from its original direction. What is the speed and direction of Ball B after the collision?

Known:
M of A = .150 kg
M of B = .150 kg
Vi of B = 10.0 m/s
Vf of A = 7.7 m/s[70degrees clockwise]

Implied:
Vi of A = 0 m/s
Ff = 0N

Unknown:
Vi of B = ?

I started out using the law of conservation of energy but I messed up somewhere early and got fully lost...I know you need to use this method to conserve the momentum of each object but I just can't remember how, can someone start please?
 
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This is a purely conservation of momentum problem. Pick your x and y axes, initially you have some amount of momentum in x and y due to the motion of ball A and in the final situation you have the same amount of momentum in x and y due to the combined motions of A and B.
 
The conservation of momentum

[tex]m\vec{v_{iA}}=m\vec{v_{fA}}+m\vec{v_{fB}}[/tex][/color]
 
Last edited:
Well, using conservation of momentum should do it. Remember, though, that you should treat the vector components separately, i.e. work it out for a chosen x-direction and y-direction. Easiest would be to have ball A roll in the x-direction.EDIT: Wow, the answers keep rolling in. :smile:
 

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