Seeking help with Collision physics problem

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The discussion focuses on a collision physics problem involving two masses, m1 (0.7 kg) and m2 (2.2 kg), with initial velocities of v1i (2.6 m/s) and v2i (4.5 m/s), respectively. After the collision, the masses stick together, and the goal is to find the angle q between the x-axis and their combined direction of motion. The solution involves applying the conservation of momentum, specifically calculating the x and y components of momentum before and after the collision, leading to the formula tan(q) = Py/Px.

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Mass m1 = 0.7 kg moves with constant velocity v1i = 2.6 m/s along the x-axis and collides with mass m2 = 2.2 kg, which moves with velocity v2i = 4.5 m/s, as sketched below. After the collision, m1 and m2 stick together. Find the angle, q, between the x-axis and the direction of motion of the two masses after the collision. (Answer in degrees.)

Not sure how to go about answering this, if someone could show me how to answer it fully it would be most helpful. Thanks
 

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Physicshelper said:
Mass m1 = 0.7 kg moves with constant velocity v1i = 2.6 m/s along the x-axis and collides with mass m2 = 2.2 kg, which moves with velocity v2i = 4.5 m/s, as sketched below. After the collision, m1 and m2 stick together. Find the angle, q, between the x-axis and the direction of motion of the two masses after the collision. (Answer in degrees.)

Not sure how to go about answering this, if someone could show me how to answer it fully it would be most helpful. Thanks

Well... "The x-component (Px) and y-component (Py) of the momentum are the same after the collision as before it; [therefore,] tan(q)=Py/Px; remember that momentum is (mass)*(velocity)" (UIUC Physics Website).

Hope this helps.
 

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