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Geometric parametrization of binary elastic collisions

Amaro J. Rica da Silva·José P. S. Lemos
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Abstract

A geometric view of the possible outcomes of elastic collisions of two massive bodies is developed that integrates laboratory, center of mass, and relative body frames in a single diagram. From these diagrams all the scattering properties of binary collisions can be obtained. The particular case of gravitational scattering by a moving massive object corresponds to the slingshot maneuver, and its maximum velocity is obtained.

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Amaro J. Rica da Silva, José P. S. Lemos. 2006-02-21. Geometric parametrization of binary elastic collisions. https://doi.org/10.1119/1.2188961

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