Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 1]PhysicsCentre of Mass, Linear momentum, Collision
During an elastic collision,
Options
- Athe kinetic energy stays constant
- Bthe final kinetic energy equals the initial kinetic energy
- Cthe final linear momentum equals the initial linear momentum
- Dthe linear momentum stays constant
Correct answer
D. the linear momentum stays constant
Step-by-step solution
In an elastic collision, the total linear momentum of the system is conserved at every instant because no external impulsive forces act on the system. Thus, the linear momentum stays constant throughout the process, which also implies that the final linear momentum equals the initial linear momentum. During the actual time of contact (deformation phase), a part of the kinetic energy is temporarily converted into elastic potential energy. Therefore, the kinetic energy does not stay constant during the collision. How