Someone me with these symbols?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the notation used in an impact physics problem related to engineering. Participants seek clarification on the differences between specific symbols representing velocities in the context of a collision.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion over the symbols (v_A)_2x and (v_(Ax))_2, indicating they understand v_A as the initial velocity of object A but are unclear about the subscripts.
  • Another participant suggests that (v_A)_2x refers to the x-component of body A's final velocity after a collision, while (v_(Ax))_2 is described as the after-collision value of A's x-component of velocity.
  • There is a claim that (v_A)2x and (v_Ax)2 are the same, although the reasoning behind this is questioned.
  • A participant requests a step-by-step solution for one of the variables, indicating that they are unable to substitute one notation for the other without obtaining incorrect results.
  • One participant expresses gratitude for the assistance received and indicates they have resolved their confusion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no clear consensus on the equivalence of the two notations, as some participants assert they are the same while others question this claim. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the substitution of one notation for the other.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference an image that is not provided in the discussion, which may contain additional context necessary for fully understanding the symbols. The discussion also lacks specific equations or definitions that could clarify the notation further.

c0nfused34235
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Homework Statement



I'm doing an impact physics for engineering question and I cannot tell the difference between

(v_A)_2x & (v_(Ax))_2.

* I don't think I'll need help with solving the actual question if I understand these variables.

Homework Equations



N/A

The Attempt at a Solution



I know that v_A is object A's initial velocity, however, I don't know how to deal with the _2x. As for the second term above, I have no idea...
 
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c0nfused34235 said:

Homework Statement



I'm doing an impact physics for engineering question and I cannot tell the difference between

(v_A)_2x & (v_(Ax))_2.

* I don't think I'll need help with solving the actual question if I understand these variables.

Homework Equations



N/A

The Attempt at a Solution



I know that v_A is object A's initial velocity, however, I don't know how to deal with the _2x. As for the second term above, I have no idea...

Welcome to the PF.

Can you post a picture or scan of the use of those symbols?
 
welcome to pf!

hi c0nfused34235! welcome to pf! :smile:

(try using the X2 button just above the Reply box :wink:)

you mean (vA)2x & (vAx)2 ?

what is the context? :confused:
 
Hi guys, thanks for the warm welcome and quick replies. Here's the question and it's solution. I was trying to figure it out (how they solve it) and I could not understand how they found the 2 variables in the red box (see image attached below). Thanks again.
 

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(v_A)2 is the final velocity of body A, i.e., its velocity after the collision

(v_A)_2x is the x-component of body A's final velocity after collision

(v_(Ax))_2 is the after collision value of A's x-component of velocity

The sum of the x-components of momentum of the system before and after the bodies collide remains constant. The same goes for the y-components of momentum.
 
hi c0nfused34235! :smile:
c0nfused34235 said:
… I could not understand how they found the 2 variables in the red box (see image attached below).

(vA)2x and (vAx)2 are the same

(i've no idea why they've done that :redface:)

so they just add (vA)2x + (vB)2x to (vA)2x - (vB)2x to get 2(vA)2x

(and subtract to get 2(vB)2x) :wink:
 
Could someone please solve for one of them (with steps)? I still don't understand how they solve for those variables. If they are indeed identical, why can't I substitute one set into the other formula? I get completely incorrect values.
 
Last edited:
YES I GOT IT!

Thanks for your help guys!
 

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