Shaping softness from hard elements
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: We consider a particle moving toward a solid wall, with a second particle of much smaller mass positioned between them. Although both the particle and the wall are perfectly rigid—implying instantaneous elastic collisions—the trajectory of the larger particle follows that of motion in a soft repulsive potential.
Source: American Journal of Physics
DOI: 10.1119/5.0293811
Authors: Holger Götz, Thorsten Pöschel
Institution: Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
Language: English
Subfield: Statistical and Nonlinear Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7125454972