The conservation of momentum in 2D

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving the conservation of momentum in a two-dimensional collision between two hockey pucks of equal mass. The initial conditions specify that one puck is moving at 5.4 m/s while the other is stationary. After the collision, the pucks deflect at angles of 33 degrees and 46 degrees. The solution approach involves breaking down the momentum into x and y components, applying the conservation of momentum equations, and utilizing trigonometric relationships to solve for the final velocities of both pucks.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of two-dimensional momentum conservation
  • Knowledge of vector decomposition in physics
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions and the Pythagorean theorem
  • Basic principles of elastic collisions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of elastic collisions in two dimensions
  • Learn how to apply vector decomposition in physics problems
  • Explore the use of trigonometric functions in solving momentum problems
  • Practice similar momentum conservation problems with different angles and speeds
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and momentum, as well as educators looking for examples of two-dimensional collision problems.

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Homework Statement


Two hockey pucks of equal mass undergo a collision on a hockey rink. One puck is initially at rest, while the other is moving with a speed of 5.4m/s. After the collision, the velocities of the pucks make angles of 33 degrees and 46 degrees relative to the original velocity of the moving puck. Determine the speed of each puck after the collision.

(Assuming the moving puck is object A and the stationary puck is object B)
Ma = Mb
Va1 = 5.4m/s
Vb1 = 0m/s
Deflection Angle of A = 33
Deflection Angle of B = 46

Homework Equations


p(before) = p(after)


The Attempt at a Solution


Okay, the first thing I did was broke it into components as it's in two dimensions. For x,

p(before) = p(after)
(Ma)(Va1x) + (Mb)(Vb1x) = (Ma)(Va2x) + (Mb)(Vb2x)
(5.4) + 0 = Va2x + Vb2x
5.4 = Va2x + Vb2x

for y,

p(before) = p(after)
(Ma)(Va1y) + (Mb)(Vb1y) = (Ma)(Va2y) + (Mb)(Vb2y)
0 + 0 = Va2y + Vb2y
Va2y = -Vb2y

And then I don't know where to go from there. I've thought about trig and using Pythagorean theorem but there's too many variables.
 
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Set up a drawing of the resultant momentum vectors after the collision. Trig and pythagorean theorem might be necessary here but draw a picture first and see what you can deduce from it.
 

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