Relative angle between two balls with equal mass after collision

In summary, the conversation discusses the relative angle between two balls after a collision, where one is initially stationary. It is mentioned that the angle is always 90 degrees and that total momentum and kinetic energy are conserved. A link to a previous discussion and the attached physics hand-in are also provided. The thread can be closed and any further questions can be addressed in a new thread in the physics homework sub forum.
  • #1
Phunee
4
0
I´m working on a physics hand-in and found the relative angle between the two balls after collison(where one is stationary before the collison) to be exactly 90degrees, is this random or is it always so?
It´s worth mentioning that total momentum and kinetic energy is conserved.

The hand in is attached and the problem I´m referring to is problem 3
 

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  • #3
A.T. has provided a link to the previous discussion of this problem. We can close the thread, and if there are any more questions start a new thread in the physics homework sub forum.
 

FAQ: Relative angle between two balls with equal mass after collision

What is the definition of "relative angle" in this context?

The relative angle between two balls refers to the angle at which the two balls collide with each other. It is measured in degrees or radians and determines the direction of the momentum transfer between the two balls.

Why is it important to consider the relative angle between two balls in a collision?

The relative angle between two balls affects the outcome of the collision. It determines the direction and magnitude of the forces acting on each ball, which ultimately determines the resulting velocities of the balls after the collision.

How does the mass of the balls affect the relative angle after collision?

The mass of the balls does not directly affect the relative angle after collision. However, it does affect the momentum transfer and resulting velocities of the balls, which in turn can influence the relative angle.

Can the relative angle between two balls ever be greater than 90 degrees?

No, the relative angle between two balls cannot be greater than 90 degrees. This is because a collision between two objects with equal mass will always result in a 90 degree angle between the two objects' velocities.

What factors can impact the accuracy of measuring the relative angle between two balls after collision?

The accuracy of measuring the relative angle can be affected by factors such as the precision of the measuring equipment, external forces acting on the balls during the collision, and the complexity of the collision itself (e.g. elastic vs. inelastic collision).

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