PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Laws of Motion · Laws of Motion
Problem
Two identical low-friction carts, each of mass 2.0kg, rest on the same horizontal track. Cart A is pushed forward by a constant horizontal force of magnitude 4.0N for 3.0s, while Cart B is pushed forward by a constant horizontal force of magnitude 6.0N for the same time interval.
Assume the forces act in the positive x-direction and neglect all other horizontal forces.
(a) Without performing detailed calculations, state which cart experiences the greater change in momentum during the 3.0s interval and explain your reasoning in terms of the relationship between net force, time, and momentum change.
(b) Determine the ratio of the magnitudes of the impulses delivered to Cart B and Cart A during the interval.
(c) Calculate the numerical values of the impulses delivered to each cart, expressing your answers with appropriate units.
(d) Using your results, compare the final speeds of the two carts and provide a brief explanation of how the impulse–momentum connection supports your comparison.