Where is contact made during collisions?

Thread starter francirp
Start date Jan 6, 2007
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Collision Contact Friction

AI Thread Summary

Contact during collisions occurs at the atomic level due to electromagnetic repulsive forces between atoms. When two objects collide, they do not physically touch in the traditional sense; instead, their electron clouds interact. This interaction creates a force that prevents the atoms from penetrating each other. The confusion often arises from the abstract nature of atomic interactions, as contact is not a tangible point but rather a result of force fields. Understanding this concept is crucial for grasping the mechanics of collisions at both macroscopic and microscopic levels.

Jan 6, 2007

francirp

If two objects collide with each other, where is contact actually made? This question confuses me because even at the atomic level (two atoms colliding) where is contact made? P.s. i hope I'm in the right section of the forum

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Jan 7, 2007

daniel_i_l

Gold Member

the collision impulse between the atoms is because of the electormagnetic repulsive forces between them.

Jan 7, 2007

francirp

ahh i see, thank you.

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