Interactive simulations for science teaching
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Elastic collision 2D
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- Summary
The conservation of momentum as well as the conservation of kinetic energy define the elastic collision. You can change the masses and speeds of the colliding objects by clicking on them. Note that the trajectory of the center of mass is not disturbed by the collision.
- Learning objectives
- To show how useful it is to consider the reference frame of the center of mass in studying an elastic collision.
- To perform a ticker tape analysis.
- How to use the animation
- Click and drag on a mass to set a new velocity (including direction).
Click on 'Reset G' to erase the dots.
Click on the mass boxes at upper left to change the ratios of the masses.
- Keywords
- momentum, impulsion, velocity, conservation, center-of-mass, barycenter, elastic-collision, ticker-tape, diagrams,
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- Share your ideas with us!