Problems are listed in approximate order of difficulty. A single dot (•) indicates straightforward problems involving just one main concept and sometimes requiring no more than substitution of numbers in the appropriate formula. Two dots (••) identify problems that are slightly more challenging and usually involve more than one concept. Three dots (•••) indicate problems that are distinctly more challenging, either because they are intrinsically difficult or involve lengthy calculations. Needless to say, these distinctions are hard to draw and are only approximate.
• Use the method of Problem 1 to predict the final velocities if two bodies of masses m and M, with m ≪ M, approach one another both traveling at speed v0 (relative to the lab) and undergo a head on, elastic collision.
Problem 1
• Consider a head-on, elastic collision between two bodies whose masses are m and M, with m ≪ M. It is well known that if m has speed v0 and M is initially at rest, m will bounce straight back with its speed unchanged, while M will remain at rest (to an excellent approximation). Use this fact to predict the final velocities if M approaches with speed v0 and m is initially at rest. [Hint: Consider the reference frame attached to M.]
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