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epilepticbunny
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Homework Statement
hello! so i am trying to figure out how to calculate the resultant velocities and directions(angles/vectors) that two perfectly elastic spheres might travel in if they were to be hit simultaneously by a third sphere at an angle. all the spheres are of equal mass, initial velocity isn't important as long as all balls are moving after the collision.
ah and assuming that the two stationary balls are parallel to the x-axis, with the y-axis between the 2 balls, the third ball could come at any angle between 30 to 0 degrees to the vertical.. and contact the 2 balls simultaneously..
Homework Equations
V1f^2 + V2f^2 + V3f^2 = V1i^2
(since all the spheres are of equal mass)
and conservation of momentum should be
V1i = V1f + V2f + V3f i think...
The Attempt at a Solution
i have read the other relevant forum posts and i know how to calculate the resultant forces and directions if the collision is head-on, like o-->8 but not if the first ball hits the other two balls at an angle. i would be really grateful if anyone could help me out with this issue.
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