Simple derivation for elastic collisions, where is my mistake?

In summary, the conversation is about a person trying to derive the velocity of a target in an elastic collision. The other person reassures them that their work is correct but points out a mistake in their expression for the answer. They suggest writing the answer in terms of the initial velocity instead of the final velocity.
  • #1
mathman44
207
0

Homework Statement



http://postimage.org/image/j2ccrtjp1/

Here is a scan of my work. The problem is on the scan. Just trying to derive the velocity of the target in an elastic collision, as sketched in the image...

Can't seem to find the problem for the life of me.
 
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  • #2
Your work looks good and the expression you derived for u2 is correct! :smile: You just didn't give the correct expression for what you claim the answer should be.

Usually people are more interested in writing the answer for u2 in terms of the initial velocity v1 rather than the final velocity u1.
 

1. What is an elastic collision?

An elastic collision is a type of collision in which kinetic energy is conserved. This means that the total energy of the system before and after the collision remains the same.

2. How is momentum conserved in an elastic collision?

In an elastic collision, both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved. This means that the total momentum of the system before the collision is equal to the total momentum after the collision.

3. Can you provide a simple derivation for elastic collisions?

Yes, the simple derivation for elastic collisions involves using the conservation of momentum and conservation of kinetic energy equations. By setting the initial and final momenta and kinetic energies equal to each other, you can solve for the final velocities of the objects involved.

4. What is the main mistake people make when deriving elastic collisions?

The most common mistake people make when deriving elastic collisions is forgetting to include the mass of the objects in the equations. The mass is a crucial factor in calculating the final velocities of the objects after the collision.

5. Are there any real-life examples of elastic collisions?

Yes, there are many real-life examples of elastic collisions. Some examples include billiard balls colliding on a pool table, a rubber ball bouncing off the ground, and two cars colliding and bouncing off each other without causing damage.

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