Abstract
Abstract We study the inelastic collisions of three particles on a line. We show that this system is a two dimensional billiard in a semi-enclosed space with unconventional reflection laws. Using this geometric language, we describe completely the dynamics of this system. We find that the asymptotic behavior changes when the coefficient of restitution becomes smaller than a critical value r c . For r > r c , the system can be understood in terms of a conventional billiard in an infinite wedge. For r ≤ r c , this is no longer true and the asymptotic behavior is richer. We also investigate the question of triple collisions and find that they are regularizable only for certain values of r .
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
