What Speed and Angle Does m2 Leave After Collision?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving a collision between two masses, m1 and m2, where m1 moves along the x-axis and strikes m2, initially at rest. After the collision, m1 moves along the y-axis, and it is established that half of the original kinetic energy is lost. The key equations used include the conservation of kinetic energy and momentum equations, specifically 1/2KE(initial) = KE(final) and the momentum equations Pix = Pfx and Piy = Pfy. The main challenge is determining the speed (u2) and angle (θ) at which m2 departs post-collision.

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Homework Statement



A mass "m1" moves along the x-axis with velocity of magnitude v0 on a frictionless table. It strikes another mass m2 which is initially at rest. The mass m1 goes off along the y-axis. If half the original kinetic energy is lost in the collision, with what speed and at what angle does m2 leave the point of collision?

Homework Equations



1/2KE(initial) = KE(final)
(1/2)Pix=Pfx
(1/2)Piy=Pfy

The Attempt at a Solution



Pix=vom1
Pfx=u2m2cosθ
Piy=0
Pfy=u1m1 - u2m2sinθ

I think these are the initial and final components of momentum, but I don't know how to find θ and u2 in terms of known variables.
 
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hi texan14! :smile:
texan14 said:
1/2KE(initial) = KE(final)
(1/2)Pix=Pfx
(1/2)Piy=Pfy

Pix=vom1
Pfx=u2m2cosθ
Piy=0
Pfy=u1m1 - u2m2sinθ

you seem to be confusing KE and momentum :confused:

what is your KE equation?​
 

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