Problem 3: Consider two colliding objects and momentum, impulse, kinetic energy

Question

Problem 3: Consider two colliding objects and momentum, impulse, kinetic energy involved. What knowledge can you use considering such problems? Please, describe in your own words concepts involved in considerations of the following physical problems. You do not need to employ formulas; just describe what concepts and knowledge you would use in each case. For example, if you were given a graph of position as a function of time, you might say: From the shape of the graph we can determine the direction of the motion, we can construct velocity graph, and we can determine if there is acceleration (because changing slope means changing velocity means acceleration).

Explanation / Answer

When two object hit one another the force applied by first body on second body is equal to force applied by second body on first body. This situation can be realised with Newton's third law of motion. If the first applies a force on second is action, the force applied by second on first is reaction. Hence these two forces are equal and opposite in direction.

The time of interaction in collision is same for both the bodies, the product of force and time, called impulse acting on the two bodies is same. Impulse acting a body is numerically equal to change in momentum.

Hence the hangs in momentum is same. i.e., the momentum of the two body system is conserved. This we state as CONSERVATION OF MOMENTUM. Hence in a collision the momentum is conserved.

In addition to conservation of momentum, if kinetic energy of the system is also conserved, the collision is called elastic collision, otherwise it is called inelastic collision.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse P
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.