(a) Can two objects on a horizontal frictionless surface | StudySoup

Textbook Solutions for Physics with MasteringPhysics

Chapter 9 Problem 11CQ

Question

Problem 11CQ

(a) Can two objects on a horizontal frictionless surface have a collision in which all the initial kinetic energy of the system is lost? Explain, and give a specific example if your answer is yes. (b) Can two such objects have a collision in which all the initial momentum of the system is lost? Explain, and give a specific example if your answer is yes.

Solution

a.)

Step 1 of 2

We have to explain that the if  two objects on a horizontal frictionless surface have a collision in all the initial kinetic energy of the system is lost.

 Suppose two objects have momenta of equal magnitude. If these objects collide in a head-on, completely inelastic collision, they will be at rest after the collision. In this case all of the initial kinetic energy is converted to other forms of energy.An example would be head on collision between the cars on a highway.

Therefore, all the initial kinetic energy of the system can be lost in a collision on a horizontal frictionless surface.

b.)

Subscribe to view the
full solution

Title Physics with MasteringPhysics 4 
Author James S. Walker
ISBN 9780321541635

(a) Can two objects on a horizontal frictionless surface

Chapter 9 textbook questions

×

Login

Organize all study tools for free

Or continue with
×

Register

Sign up for access to all content on our site!

Or continue with

Or login if you already have an account

×

Reset password

If you have an active account we’ll send you an e-mail for password recovery

Or login if you have your password back