Solving for Time of Collision for 2 Particles with Initial Speed u

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two particles projected vertically with an initial speed. The objective is to determine the time elapsed before the particles collide and their speeds just before impact.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the distance formula for projectile motion but questions its applicability for determining the collision time. Participants discuss the need to equate the displacement equations for both particles and consider how to incorporate the time interval T into the equations.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, offering hints and suggestions for equating the equations of motion. There is a focus on clarifying the relationship between the time variables for the two particles, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

The problem includes a constraint that the time interval T between the projections is less than 2u/g, which may influence the analysis of the collision timing.

Jess1986
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This is a follow from a post i made yesterday. The question is:

2 particles are projected vertically up one after another from the same point at same initial speed u. T is the time interval between the 2 projections, where T<2u/g. Find what further time elapses before the particles collide, and find their speeds immediately before impact.

The equations i have found so far are for distance traveled
x= -0.5gt^2 + ut.
However i have realized this formula is for the distance the particle has traveled rather then the height reached. Since i need to find the time when the particles will collide (ie when they are at the same height) i am stuck as i think the formula is no use?! Please help
 
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Hint : x is not actual distance but displacement.
Can u go from here?
 
so i should equate the equations for x for both particles? how would i substitute T into the equation for particle 2?
 
Yes u should equate x.

Take t as time for first proj. and t-T for second proj.
Solve for t in terms of T.
 
ok that's great thanks for your helpx
 

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