Solving 3 Sphere Collision Problem: Help Needed

In summary, three spheres with different masses and initial velocities are approaching the origin on a frictionless air table. After colliding and sticking together, they all move at the same velocity in the +x direction. To determine the initial velocity of C, the momentum equations in the x and y directions can be used, along with the principle of conservation of kinetic energy.
  • #1
marialo
12
0
I'm having trouble with this problem, can someone help:

Spheres A (m=0.02 kg), B (m=0.03 kg), and C (m=0.05 kg), are each approaching the origin as they slide on a frictionless air table. the initial velocity of A is 1.5 m/s horizontally to the left and the x and y components of B's velocity are 0.25 m/s horizontally to the left and 0.433 m/s downward . all three spheres arrive at the origin at the same time and stick together. what must the x and y components of the initial velocity of C be if all three objects end up moving at 0.5 m/n in the +x direction after the collision?
 
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  • #2
marialo said:
I'm having trouble with this problem, can someone help:
Spheres A (m=0.02 kg), B (m=0.03 kg), and C (m=0.05 kg), are each approaching the origin as they slide on a frictionless air table. the initial velocity of A is 1.5 m/s horizontally to the left and the x and y components of B's velocity are 0.25 m/s horizontally to the left and 0.433 m/s downward . all three spheres arrive at the origin at the same time and stick together. what must the x and y components of the initial velocity of C be if all three objects end up moving at 0.5 m/n in the +x direction after the collision?
Show us your work. What is the principle or physical law that applies here?

AM
 
  • #3
Try writing the momenutm equations in the x and y directions.

Consider the total kinetic energy before = total kinetic energy after.
 

FAQ: Solving 3 Sphere Collision Problem: Help Needed

1. How do I determine the coordinates of the points of intersection for three spheres colliding?

To determine the coordinates of the points of intersection, you will need to first find the equations for each sphere. Then, you can use algebraic methods such as substitution or elimination to solve for the coordinates of the points of intersection.

2. What are the variables involved in solving the 3 sphere collision problem?

The variables involved in solving the 3 sphere collision problem include the coordinates of the centers of the three spheres, the radii of the spheres, and the time at which the spheres collide.

3. Can I use a computer program to solve the 3 sphere collision problem?

Yes, you can use a computer program to solve the 3 sphere collision problem. There are various algorithms and numerical methods that can be implemented in a computer program to solve this problem quickly and accurately.

4. How is the velocity of each sphere calculated after the collision?

The velocity of each sphere after the collision can be calculated using the conservation of momentum and energy equations. These equations take into account the mass, velocity, and direction of each sphere before and after the collision.

5. Are there any real-world applications of the 3 sphere collision problem?

Yes, the 3 sphere collision problem has many real-world applications, including determining the paths of celestial bodies in space, predicting the behavior of particles in a gas, and simulating collisions in sports such as billiards or bowling.

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