Mechanics > Linear Momentum > Conservation of Linear Momentum

DCS# 1N30.20

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COLLISION BALLS WITH 3:1 MASS RATIO

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APPARATUS

collision balls with 3:1 mass ratio

202-14-D

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DESCRIPTION

Two steel balls with mass m₁ and m₂ = 3m₁ hang from bifilar supports.  Pull aside m₁ and release so it strikes m₂ with speed v.  After the collision, m₁ rebounds with speed 2v and m₂ has speed v.  After the next collision, m₁ again has speed v, and m₂ is at rest.  The cycle continues.  This shows time reversal invariance.

There is beeswax available (stuck to the top) to show an inelastic collision.

 

NOTES

Make sure the balls are aligned.