Most Collisions Are Secretly in One Dimension

The video explores the nature of collisions, highlighting the underlying simplicity despite apparent complexity. It explains that in one-dimensional collisions, outcomes are uniquely determined by conservation of momentum and energy. Even when energy is lost, the outcomes remain predictable. In multi-dimensional collisions, the net force often acts in one direction, making them effectively one-dimensional. This determinism allows for accurate simulations of complex collisions.

What underlying principle simplifies the complexity of collisions?

How does conservation of momentum relate to the outcome of a collision?

Explain the significance of having two independent equations for two unknown variables in collisions.

What happens to energy in a collision if it is not conserved?

In what way are collisions in two or three dimensions similar to one-dimensional collisions?