Solving Mechanics Collision of 3 Elastic Balls

In summary, the three perfectly elastic balls A, B, and C with masses of 2 Kg, 4 Kg, and 8 Kg respectively, all move along the same straight line with velocities of 4 m/s, 1 m/s, and 0.75 m/s. After the collision of ball A with ball B and then the collision of ball B with ball C, calculations show that ball B will be brought to rest with a velocity of 0 m/s and ball C will have a velocity of 0.75 m/s, as expected. However, there seems to be an error in the starting equation used for these calculations.
  • #1
sranjanr
4
0
Three perfectly elastic balls A, B, and C of masses 2 Kg, 4 Kg, and 8 Kg, respectively move along the same straight line and in the same reaction with velocities of 4 m/s,
1 m/s, and 0.75 m/s. The ball A collides with ball B and subsequently the ball B impinges with ball C. Make calculations to show that the balls B and C will be brought to rest after the impacts


As I solved :

Putting the equation

v1=u1(m1-m2)+2*m2*u2/m1+m2
v2=u2(m2-m1)+2*m1*u1/m1+m2


Now m1=2Kg , m2=4Kg , u1=4m/s , u2=1m/s

v1 =4(2-4)+2*4*1/2+4=0
v2 =1(4-2)+2*2*4/2+4=3

now ball A get rest and ball B is in 3m/s

now as same before putting equation for B and C

m1=4kg , m2=8 kg ,v1 =3 m/s ,v2 ,0.75 m/s

v1=3(4-8)+2*8*0.75/4+8=0
v2=0.75(8-4)+2*4*3/4+8= 27/12

but as per question V2 should be 0

Am i doing any wrong step ?
 
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  • #2
Your starting equation is incorrect. The first term has dimensions of momentum (as it should not) and the second term dimensions of velocity (as it should). Please check your starting formula again.
 
  • #3
I could not get .could you tell me which equestion should i apply ?
 
  • #4
sranjanr said:
I could not get .could you tell me which equestion should i apply ?

[tex]v_{1} = \frac{m_{1}-m_{2}}{m_{1}+m_{2}}u_{1}+\frac{2m_{2}}{m_{1}+m_{2}}u_{2}[/tex]

To get v2, just swap subscripts 1 and 2.
 

FAQ: Solving Mechanics Collision of 3 Elastic Balls

How do you calculate the velocities of the balls after a collision?

To calculate the velocities of the balls after a collision, you will need to use the principles of conservation of momentum and conservation of kinetic energy. First, you will need to calculate the total momentum and total kinetic energy of the system before and after the collision. Then, you can use these equations to solve for the velocities of the balls.

What are the assumptions made in solving mechanics collision of 3 elastic balls?

The assumptions made in solving mechanics collision of 3 elastic balls include the assumption that the balls are perfectly spherical and have equal masses, that there is no external force acting on the system, and that the collision is perfectly elastic (i.e. there is no loss of kinetic energy).

What is the difference between an elastic and inelastic collision?

In an elastic collision, the total kinetic energy of the system is conserved, meaning there is no loss of energy during the collision. In an inelastic collision, some of the kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound.

Can you solve for the velocities of the balls in a non-head-on collision?

Yes, the equations for conservation of momentum and conservation of kinetic energy can be applied to any type of collision, not just head-on collisions. However, the calculations may be more complex in non-head-on collisions and may require more information about the angles and initial velocities of the balls.

Why is it important to understand the mechanics of collisions?

Understanding the mechanics of collisions is important in various fields, such as physics, engineering, and sports. It allows us to predict and analyze the outcome of collisions, design safer and more efficient structures, and improve the performance of athletes and vehicles.

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