Finding the Speed of a System of Three Bodies Before Collision

In summary: I think I'll need to seek professional help.In summary, the figure shows a system consisting of two identical spheres of mass m and a mobile platform mass M. If the system starts from rest in the position shown in the figure, what is the speed from each sphere in the moment when both move horizontally, before the crash occurs. Neglect all friction.
  • #1
orlan2r
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0
The figure shows a system consisting of two identical spheres of mass m and a mobile platform mass M. If the system starts from rest in the position shown in the figure, what is the speed from each sphere in the moment when both move horizontally, before the crash occurs. Neglect all friction.
 

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  • #2
This looks lie a homework type question. Easy(ish) to solve if you remember that the PE at the start becomes KE at the end.
 
  • #3
Its not easy. Please try it to solve
 
  • #4
orlan2r said:
Its not easy. Please try it to solve
I will have a go this evening if time permits. Is it really not just the conservation laws that solve it? (Momentum too)
 
  • #5
sophiecentaur said:
I will have a go this evening if time permits. Is it really not just the conservation laws that solve it? (Momentum too)
NO
more equation is needed
 
  • #6
orlan2r said:
NO
more equation is needed
What else equations? It is obvious that Newtonion physics is sufficient... you have not even friction!
 
  • #7
Omega0 said:
What else equations? It is obvious that Newtonion physics is sufficient... you have not even friction!
Conservation of momentum on the x-axis and conservation of energy (2 equations but three unknown speeds)
 
  • #8
orlan2r said:
Conservation of momentum on the x-axis and conservation of energy (2 equations but three unknown speeds)
Yep. Fair enough. Another equation is needed too.
 
  • #9
sophiecentaur said:
I will have a go this evening if time permits. Is it really not just the conservation laws that solve it? (Momentum too)
Can you help me sophiecentaur?
 
  • #10
Someone who can help me in this challenge problem?
 
  • #11
orlan2r said:
Can you help me sophiecentaur?
Sorry about this but it requires a lot of time, I think. Afaics, you would need to write out the equation of motion, from t = 0, for all three bodies and arrive at an integral which has to be solved. To make it harder, the limits for the short fall will be different from the long fall.
BTW, who has set you this beastly problem? Perhaps you could go back and ask for guidance? After all, they really should be able to help - if they have actually realized how hard the problem appears to be. Is it a a level that's appropriate to the level of the course you're following?
 
  • #12
This problem I have created myself. Who do you think could help me?
 
  • #13
orlan2r said:
This problem I have created myself. Who do you think could help me?
If it your own problem then perhaps you should start from the beginning, with a simpler situation and work up to your OP.
Start with a single ball on a linear slope, then a single ball on a circular slope.
PF has had a number of threads about blocks on inclined planes (fixed and sliding), to give you a start with finding the sort of approach needed.
 
  • #14
sophiecentaur said:
If it your own problem then perhaps you should start from the beginning, with a simpler situation and work up to your OP.
Start with a single ball on a linear slope, then a single ball on a circular slope.
PF has had a number of threads about blocks on inclined planes (fixed and sliding), to give you a start with finding the sort of approach needed.
AlreadyI did it. Only I wish to know the opinion of a specialist.
Could you propose this problem on other forum please. I can`t believe that nobody can propuse a solution.
Thanks
 

FAQ: Finding the Speed of a System of Three Bodies Before Collision

What is the "System from three bodies"?

The "System from three bodies" refers to the mathematical problem of predicting the motion of three objects under the influence of their mutual gravitational attraction. It is also known as the "three-body problem".

Why is the "System from three bodies" considered a difficult problem?

The "System from three bodies" is considered a difficult problem because it does not have an exact analytical solution. This means that it is not possible to predict the motion of the three bodies using a simple formula or equation. Instead, numerical approximations must be used, which can be complex and time-consuming.

Can the "System from three bodies" be solved exactly?

No, the "System from three bodies" cannot be solved exactly. This is due to the chaotic nature of the problem, where small changes in initial conditions can lead to drastically different outcomes. This is known as the "butterfly effect".

What are some real-life examples of the "System from three bodies"?

Examples of the "System from three bodies" can be found in many natural and man-made systems. Some examples include the motion of the Earth, Moon, and Sun in our solar system, the interactions between three stars in a triple star system, and even the motion of three particles in a chemical reaction.

What techniques are used to approximate solutions for the "System from three bodies"?

There are various techniques used to approximate solutions for the "System from three bodies", including numerical integration methods, perturbation theory, and computer simulations. These techniques involve breaking down the problem into smaller, more manageable parts and using mathematical and computational tools to approximate the motion of the three bodies.

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