Two separate experiments are performed on a frictionless track
PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Linear Momentum · Linear Momentum
Problem
Two separate experiments are performed on a frictionless track.
• Collision I: A 1.0kg cart moving at 2.0m⋅s−1 collides and sticks to an identical 1.0kg cart that is initially at rest.
• Collision II: A 2.0kg cart moving at 1.0m⋅s−1 collides and sticks to a 1.0kg cart that is initially at rest.
Which collision results in the larger fraction of the system’s initial kinetic energy being converted to other forms?
(a) Collision II only
(b) Collision I only
(c) Both collisions convert the same fraction of energy
(d) There is not enough information to decide