Three Pool Balls Homework - Find Final Velocities

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The discussion focuses on solving a physics homework problem involving an elastic collision between three equal-mass pool balls. The main question revolves around the assumptions that can be made regarding the angles and final velocities of the balls after the collision. The participant considers whether the two right balls can be assumed to leave at equal angles and if they can be deflected at 45-degree angles. Momentum and energy conservation equations are presented, but the participant seeks guidance on the next steps in the solution process. Clarifying these assumptions is crucial for accurately determining the final velocities of all three balls.
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Homework Statement



A pool ball with initial speed v is aimed right between two other pools balls. If the the two right balls leave the elastic collision with equal speeds, find the final velocities of all three balls.

Homework Equations



Equations for Energy and Momentum conservation laws

The Attempt at a Solution



My questions for this problem are basically just which assumptions I can make. I'm assuming that the two right balls leave at equal angles, and the ball with the initial velocity is still traveling in the x-direction after the collision. But I'm not sure if I can assume this. And part of me wants to assume that the two right balls are deflected at 45 degree angles, but I'm also not sure if I can assume this.

These are my equations for momentum

mv = mv_{1} +2mv_{2}cos\theta for the x-derection and the y-direction simplifies to 0 = 0. And for energy, after simplifications, I have v^{2} = v_{1}^{2} + 2v_{2}^{2} , but I'm not sure where to go from this.
 
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Oh and the problem says that the three pool balls are of equal mass.
 
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