Example 1:

(Rock A) is thrown against a larger stationary rock(Rock B).

considering the following possibilities...

1. Rock A bounces off of Rock B
2. Rock A splits into two pieces off of Rock B
3. Rock A explodes into many pieces off of Rock B

What factors are affecting the different results?
What would be needed to predict the outcome of the next rock that is thrown?

Consider this:
Rock A is thrown into a pile of sand and is embedded.

Are there any additional factors, and if so, what are they?

What would be necessary for, when Rock A is thrown against Rock B, the two to fuse?

In order to understand the factors affecting the different results, we need to consider the laws of physics and the properties of the rocks involved. Here are some key factors that affect the outcomes when Rock A is thrown against a larger stationary rock, Rock B:

1. Elasticity: If both Rock A and Rock B are highly elastic and have a smooth contact surface, it's more likely that Rock A will bounce off of Rock B. Elasticity refers to the ability of a material to return to its original shape after being deformed.

2. Fracture toughness: If Rock A is relatively brittle and cannot withstand high impact forces, it might split into two or more pieces upon hitting Rock B. Fracture toughness measures a material's ability to resist cracking.

3. Strength: If Rock A is structurally weak or has internal defects, it could break apart into many pieces upon impact with Rock B. Strength refers to a material's ability to withstand external forces without permanent deformation or failure.

4. Velocity and angle of impact: The velocity at which Rock A is thrown, as well as the angle at which it impacts Rock B, can significantly affect the outcome. Higher velocity and oblique angles can lead to more bouncing or splitting scenarios compared to lower velocities and head-on collisions.

Predicting the outcome of the next rock thrown would require considering these factors and carefully analyzing the properties of the rocks involved. A thorough understanding of elasticity, fracture toughness, and strength of both Rock A and Rock B, combined with knowledge of their velocities and collision angles, would be necessary for accurate predictions.

When Rock A is thrown into a pile of sand and becomes embedded, there are additional factors at play:

1. Cohesion of sand particles: The ability of sand particles to stick together, also known as cohesion, can play a role in Rock A becoming embedded. If the sand particles have high cohesion, they can bind around Rock A upon impact, causing it to sink and become lodged.

2. Porosity of the sand: The degree of porosity, or the amount of empty space between sand particles, can affect how deeply Rock A becomes embedded. Higher porosity allows for more space to accommodate the rock, potentially causing it to sink deeper.

To achieve fusion between Rock A and Rock B upon impact, some additional factors come into play:

1. Melting temperature: If both rocks have similar compositions and relatively low melting temperatures, the high energy generated upon impact might cause them to melt and fuse together.

2. Sufficient force: The impact needs to be strong enough to bring the surfaces of Rock A and Rock B into close contact, facilitating the formation of atomic bonds between the two materials.

3. Compatibility: The chemical composition and crystal structure of Rock A and Rock B should be compatible to allow for atomic bonding during the fusion process.

In summary, predicting the outcome of different rock collisions requires considering factors such as elasticity, fracture toughness, strength, velocity, angle of impact, cohesion of surrounding materials, porosity, melting temperature, force, and compatibility. Accurate predictions would involve a thorough understanding of the properties and behaviors of the materials involved.