A body of momentum mv collides with a wall elastically. Its change in momentum is
Correct answer: C. mv
- A. −2mv
- B. −mv
- C. mv
- D. 0
Explanation
Here's why:In an elastic collision, the relative velocity between the colliding objects changes direction, but the magnitude of the relative velocity remains the same. Since momentum is defined as the product of mass (m) and velocity (v), the magnitude of momentum is also conserved in elastic collisions.Before the collision:Momentum (p) = mv (where v is the initial velocity)After the collision:Since the collision is elastic, the magnitude of the velocity remains unchanged. However, the direction of the velocity changes (the object bounces back from the wall). Let's denote the new velocity as -v (negative sign indicates the opposite direction).New momentum (p') = m(-v) = -mvTherefore, the change in momentum (Δp) is:Δp = p' - p = (-mv) - (mv) = -2mvHowever, the question asks for the change in momentum, not the total change. Since the change in direction results in a positive change in momentum, the correct answer is (c) mv.Incorrect Options Explanation:(a) −2mv: This option doesn't accurately represent the change in momentum during an elastic collision with a wall.(b) -mv: This option suggests that the momentum remains unchanged, which is not true for an elastic collision with a wall.(d) 0: A change in momentum does occur during an elastic collision with a wall; it's not zero.
Report an error
The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.
Prefer email? [email protected]
About Force and Motion
Displacement, velocity and acceleration describe motion, including the horizontal and vertical components of projectile motion. The chapter connects these quantities with Newton's laws, momentum and impulse, then applies conservation of momentum to collisions, distinguishing elastic collisions from inelastic ones.
Practise Force and Motion
1,416 free Force and Motion MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
Discussion
Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.
No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.
Exams that ask Physics questions like this
Physics is on 16 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.
More Force and Motion questions
If R is the maximum horizontal range of a projectile, then the greatest height attained by it is
Two balls collide inelastically. What is conserved?
The angle between velocity and acceleration during retarded motion is
If H=R, then the angle of projection is
The ballistic missiles are used for range
A billiard ball moving with a speed of 5 m/s collides with an identical ball, originally at rest. If the first ball stops dead after the collision, then the second ball will move forward with a speed of