Collisions

Problems

Problem 2.1:

Two balls of equal masses move toward each other on the x-axis. When they collide, each ball ricochets 90 degrees, such that both balls are moving away from each other on the y-axis. What can be said about the final velocity of each ball?

[Solution]

Problem 2.2:

Two pool balls traveling in opposite directions collide. One ball travels off at an angle θ to its original velocity, as shown below. Is there any possible way for the second ball to be completely stopped by this collision? If so state the conditions under which this could occur.

Two particles collide at point A, and one moves off at an angle. Is there any way the other particle can remain at A after the collision?

[Solution]

Problem 2.3:

Two objects are traveling perpendicular to each other, one moving at 2 m/s with a mass of 5 kg, and one moving at 3 m/s with a mass of 10 kg, as shown below. They collide and stick together. What is the magnitude and direction of the velocity of both objects?

Two objects in an inelastic collision

[Solution]

Problem 2.4:

A common pool shot involves hitting a ball into a pocket from an angle. Shown below, the cue ball hits a stationary ball at an angle of 45^o, such that it goes into the corner pocket with a speed of 2 m/s. Both balls have a mass of .5 kg, and the cue ball is traveling at 4 m/s before the collision. Recalling that this collision is elastic, calculate the angle with which the cue is deflected by the collision.