Which collision equations go with which situations?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding collision equations in physics, specifically focusing on elastic, inelastic, and completely inelastic collisions. Participants are seeking clarification on which equations apply to different collision scenarios as they prepare for an upcoming test.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to rewrite and analyze the equations for elastic and inelastic collisions. Questions are raised about the meaning of terms in the equations, particularly the significance of the combined mass in completely inelastic collisions and the implications of directionality in momentum calculations.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the relationships between the equations and the physical scenarios they represent. Some participants are providing insights into the implications of the equations, while others are confirming their understanding of the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants are preparing for a test and are looking for clarity on the equations and their applications. There is a focus on ensuring that all relevant equations are accounted for and understood in the context of momentum and collision types.

twenty5
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So yeah, I just want to get some things cleared up... with collision equations...

OK SO..

QUESTION:
which equations go with which situations?
+++++++++++++
Elastic collision:
----------------
1] V1' = V1 ( m1 - m2 ) / (m1 + m2 )

2] V2' = 2m1v1 / (m1 + m2 )
1] and 2] are for ones where one object is stationary

m1v1 + m2v2 = m1v1' + m2v2'

++++++++++++++

Inelastic Collision:
-----------------

m1v1 + m2v2 = m1v1' + m2v2l

+++++++++++++++++

complete Inelastic Collisions:
----------------------------
m1v1 = (m1 + m2 ) V'

just want to get them straighten out for the test tomorrow ^^ and If I'm missing any... can you let me know thanks in advanced!
 
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twenty5 said:
So yeah, I just want to get some things cleared up... with collision equations...

OK SO..

QUESTION:
which equations go with which situations?
+++++++++++++
Elastic collision:
----------------
1] V1' = V1 ( m1 - m2 ) / (m1 + m2 )

2] V2' = 2m1v1 / (m1 + m2 )
1] and 2] are for ones where one object is stationary

well for 1] and 2] let's rewrite these equations:

[tex]V_1'(m_1+m_2)=m_1v_1-m_2v_1[/tex]

I am assuming the left side is what happened after collision.

So what does the term (m1+m2) symbolize for the bodies? and notice how on the right side the velocity is the same, what does the negative sign mean?

Also your equation for a completely inelastic collision is correct. But just know that the equation above it is for any collision in general i.e. it applies for both elastic and inelastic.
 
rock.freak667 said:
well for 1] and 2] let's rewrite these equations:

[tex]V_1'(m_1+m_2)=m_1v_1-m_2v_1[/tex]

I am assuming the left side is what happened after collision.

So what does the term (m1+m2) symbolize for the bodies? and notice how on the right side the velocity is the same, what does the negative sign mean?

uhm yup it's for ""after" collision ,and m1 + m2 is like when they are 1 mass I believe...so is everythiing else alrite? :) [tex] V_1single-quote(m_1+m_2)=m_1v_1-m_2v_1[/tex]

basically, on the right side , you can factor our v1 and then just divide by (m1 + m2) from the left side ;)
 
twenty5 said:
uhm yup it's for ""after" collision ,and m1 + m2 is like when they are 1 mass I believe...so is everythiing else alrite? :)

Yep, meaning that the bodies stick together (so it is a completely inelastic collision) but when doing questions with momentum, you must always take into account direction.

So if we take +ve as moving to the right then -ve is to the left, right?
So from the right side of the equation m1 is moving to the right and m2 is moving to the left.
 
rock.freak667 said:
Yep, meaning that the bodies stick together (so it is a completely inelastic collision) but when doing questions with momentum, you must always take into account direction.

So if we take +ve as moving to the right then -ve is to the left, right?
So from the right side of the equation m1 is moving to the right and m2 is moving to the left.

mmm kay
 
twenty5 said:
mmm kay

so you should be good to go now.
 
m1v1 = (m1 + m2 ) V'

for completely inelastic collision because 1 final velocity when they stick together at the end and... m1 + m2 same mass?
 
phew okay thanks a whole bunch and another bunch :D
 
twenty5 said:
m1v1 = (m1 + m2 ) V'

for completely inelastic collision because 1 final velocity when they stick together at the end and... m1 + m2 same mass?

Well the m1+m2 means the bodies stick together, so the new mass of the body is the sum of the masses m1 and m2
 

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