Point sized particle collision and no transfer of energy

In summary, the conversation discusses two identical point-sized particles traveling along different axes and the possibility of a collision. Due to the particles being point-sized, the energy lost due to heat is negligible, making it an elastic collision. However, the work done by the system consisting of both particles is zero, and each particle imparts an impulse on the other upon collision. The role of gravity is also discussed, with it being deemed irrelevant in this situation. The conversation ends with the acknowledgement that the collision is complicated and indeterminate.
  • #1
FireAP
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Two identical point-sized particles with the same Y-coordinate were traveling along the X and Z axes respectively. Given that gravity is acting parallel to the Y-axis, will the particles when they eventually collide, continue traveling along the same linear path due to work done by either being 0?
 
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  • #2
FireAP said:
Summary:: Point sized particle collision resulting in no transfer of energy due to work being 0?

Two identical point-sized particles with the same Y-coordinate were traveling along the X and Z axes respectively. Given that gravity is acting parallel to the Y-axis, will the particles when they eventually collide, continue traveling along the same linear path due to work done by either being 0?

Is the y-axis vertical? Why is the motion of either particle linear?

You can use point-sized particles to model both elastic and inelastic collisions. Although, strictly speaking, inelastic collisions between point particles are not a very accurate physical model, as loss of kinetic energy to internal thermal energy requires some sort of structure within the colliding bodies.
 
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  • #3
FireAP said:
Summary:: Point sized particle collision resulting in no transfer of energy due to work being 0?

Two identical point-sized particles with the same Y-coordinate were traveling along the X and Z axes respectively. Given that gravity is acting parallel to the Y-axis, will the particles when they eventually collide, continue traveling along the same linear path due to work done by either being 0?

This is wrong.

The work done by the SYSTEM consisting of both particles is zero. The work done by EACH particle isn't zero, because upon collision, each particle impart an IMPULSE upon the other. So your claim that ".. work done by either being 0..." is incorrect.

Zz.
 
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  • #4
PeroK said:
Is the y-axis vertical? Why is the motion of either particle linear?

You can use point-sized particles to model both elastic and inelastic collisions. Although, strictly speaking, inelastic collisions between point particles are not a very accurate physical model, as loss of kinetic energy to internal thermal energy requires some sort of structure within the colliding bodies.
Yes, Y-axis is vertical. Purely theoretical.Exactly. Because they are both point sized the energy lost due to heat becomes almost negligible and since we are considering energy lost to be 0 ,this is in fact an elastic collision.
 
  • #5
ZapperZ said:
This is wrong.

The work done by the SYSTEM consisting of both particles is zero. The work done by EACH particle isn't zero, because upon collision, each particle impart an IMPULSE upon the other. So your claim that ".. work done by either being 0..." is incorrect.

Zz.
As stated earlier gravity does no work in this case and each particle with RESPECT to the other does not have any loss in energy due to heat or friction, what will happen to either body? They certainly won't cancel out each other's energies and if it was possible to do this experimentally I wouldn't be here right now.
 
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  • #6
FireAP said:
As stated earlier gravity does no work in this case and each particle with RESPECT to the other does not have any loss in energy due to heat or friction, what will happen to either body? They certainly won't cancel out each other's energies and if it was possible to do this experimentally I wouldn't be here right now.

It seems as if you didn't understand a single word that I stated in the post you quoted.

Zz.
 
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  • #7
FireAP said:
Yes, Y-axis is vertical. Purely theoretical.Exactly. Because they are both point sized the energy lost due to heat becomes almost negligible and since we are considering energy lost to be 0 ,this is in fact an elastic collision.
What don't you understand about an elastic collision between two particles?

As far as I can see gravity is irrelevant here. That's simply acting as an external force on the system.
 
  • #8
FireAP said:
Summary:: Point sized particle collision resulting in no transfer of energy due to work being 0?

Two identical point-sized particles with the same Y-coordinate were traveling along the X and Z axes respectively. Given that gravity is acting parallel to the Y-axis, will the particles when they eventually collide, continue traveling along the same linear path due to work done by either being 0?
The fact the the particles are point-like does nothing to simplify the situation. It complicates matters instead.

At what angle do the two particles collide? Indeterminate.
How much energy is lost upon collision? Indeterminate.
Do the two particles collide? Probability zero.
 

Related to Point sized particle collision and no transfer of energy

1. What is a point sized particle collision?

A point sized particle collision refers to a scenario where two particles collide with each other, and their size is negligible compared to the distance between them. This means that the particles can be treated as single points in space, and their size does not affect the outcome of the collision.

2. What does "no transfer of energy" mean in a point sized particle collision?

In a point sized particle collision, there is no transfer of energy between the two particles involved. This means that the total energy of the system remains constant before and after the collision. However, there may be a change in the kinetic energy of each individual particle.

3. Is it possible for a point sized particle collision to result in a transfer of energy?

No, it is not possible for a point sized particle collision to result in a transfer of energy. Since the particles are treated as single points, there is no way for them to exchange energy with each other during the collision.

4. How do scientists study point sized particle collisions?

Scientists study point sized particle collisions using mathematical models and simulations. These models take into account the mass, velocity, and direction of the particles to predict the outcome of the collision. They also use advanced technologies such as particle accelerators to observe and analyze these collisions in real-time.

5. What are some real-life applications of point sized particle collisions?

Point sized particle collisions have many applications in various fields, including physics, chemistry, and engineering. They are used to study the behavior of subatomic particles, create new materials, and understand the processes involved in nuclear reactions. They also play a crucial role in developing new technologies, such as particle accelerators and nuclear power plants.

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