If a shell explodes in the air, its fragments fly in different directions. The total momentum of the fragments
Correct answer: C. Remains constant
- A. Increases
- B. Decreases
- C. Remains constant
- D. None of the above
Explanation
Initially the shell will be stationary and hence have zero momentum. After explosion the fragments of shell will fly apart in different directions and the sum of their momenta will also be equal to zero so as to obey Law of conservation of momentum.The law of conservation of momentum states that the total linear momentum of an isolated system remains constant.Since the momentum before and after are both zero, options A and B are wrong (as they talk about an increase or decrease in momentum).Option C says it remains constant, which is the correct answer.
This question appeared on the ETEA MDCAT 2006 paper, which you can sit online with every answer explained.
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About Linear Momentum
Linear momentum is the vector product of mass and velocity, p = mv, and changes when a net external force acts. Work includes impulse as the change in momentum, conservation of momentum in isolated systems, collisions and explosions, and the distinction between elastic, inelastic and perfectly inelastic collisions.
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