After a two-body collision, the velocity vectors associated with the separating bodies form a right angle, independent of the specific final direction of the motion of body 1. Necessary assumptions include all of the following except
A) equal masses.
B) one mass initially at rest.
C) perfectly elastic collision.
D) collision confined to a horizontal plane.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The necessity for equal masses, one mass initially at rest, and a perfectly elastic collision are all related to ensuring the specific outcome of the velocity vectors forming a right angle post-collision. The collision being confined to a horizontal plane is not a necessary assumption for the velocity vectors to form a right angle, as this outcome is determined by the masses, initial conditions, and the nature of the collision (elasticity), not the plane in which the collision occurs.

After a Two-Body Collision, the Velocity Vectors Associated with the Separating