Glancing Collisions In 2D, help simplifying

In summary, the problem involves a collision between a mass m1 traveling at velocity V and a mass 2m at rest. The resulting velocities of the masses are V1 at 45° and V2 at 45° downwards. The goal is to calculate V1 and V2 in terms of V using the equations of conservation of momentum and trigonometric functions.
  • #1
Visionary_
2
0

Homework Statement


We are only given variables in this problem, that is:
m1 travels at V, collides with 2m which is at rest
results in m going off at 45° at V1
2m also goes off at 45° down at V2
Calculate V1 and V2 in terms of V


Homework Equations


Ʃρx-initial=Ʃρx-final
Ʃρy-initial=Ʃρy-final
Use Linear combinations; sin45= √2/2=cos45

The Attempt at a Solution


x direction:
mv1=mv1√2/2+2mv√2/2
y direction
0=√2/2(mv1+2mv)
 
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  • #2
Visionary_ said:

Homework Statement


We are only given variables in this problem, that is:
m1 travels at V, collides with 2m which is at rest
results in m going off at 45° at V1
2m also goes off at 45° down at V2
Calculate V1 and V2 in terms of V


Homework Equations


Ʃρx-initial=Ʃρx-final
Ʃρy-initial=Ʃρy-final
Use Linear combinations; sin45= √2/2=cos45

The Attempt at a Solution


x direction:
mv1=mv1√2/2+2mv√2/2
y direction
0=√2/2(mv1+2mv)

The equations you have written out are not quite right.

You have:

x direction:
mv1=mv1√2/2+2mv√2/2
y direction
0=√2/2(mv1+2mv)

but were perhaps trying for

x direction:
m1V=m1V1√2/2+m2V2√2/2
y direction
0=√2/2(m1V1+m2V2)

Though perhaps you really did mean masses m and 2m ?
 
  • #3
yes the second mass was 2m as in twice the mass,
i simplified the problem further and got a 90% on the paper so its fine :)
 

Related to Glancing Collisions In 2D, help simplifying

1. What is a glancing collision in 2D?

A glancing collision in 2D is a type of collision that occurs when two objects collide at an angle, rather than head on. This results in the objects bouncing off each other at an angle, rather than moving straight towards or away from each other.

2. How do you calculate the velocities of objects after a glancing collision?

The velocities of objects after a glancing collision can be calculated using the conservation of momentum and conservation of kinetic energy equations. These equations take into account the masses and velocities of the objects before and after the collision.

3. Can you simplify the equations for glancing collisions in 2D?

Yes, the equations for glancing collisions in 2D can be simplified by assuming that the objects involved have equal masses. This simplification can also be applied when the objects have similar velocities before and after the collision.

4. How does the angle of collision affect the outcome of a glancing collision in 2D?

The angle of collision plays a significant role in determining the outcome of a glancing collision in 2D. If the angle of collision is small, the objects will bounce off each other at a sharper angle, resulting in a larger change in velocities. If the angle of collision is larger, the objects will bounce off each other at a more shallow angle, resulting in a smaller change in velocities.

5. Are there any real-world applications of glancing collisions in 2D?

Yes, glancing collisions in 2D have many real-world applications, particularly in sports and games. For example, in billiards, the angle at which the cue ball hits another ball will determine the direction and speed at which the second ball will move. Glancing collisions are also important in the design of airbags, which use the principle of glancing collisions to reduce the force of impact during a car accident.

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