When a ball undergoes a one-dimensional elastic collision with a wall, the velocity of the ball is reversed, while the wall remains stationary. Explain why this does not violate conservation of momentum
What will be an ideal response?
One can regard this as the collision of the ball with a very massive object. As the mass of the object is increased, its speed after the collision becomes smaller and smaller. In the limiting case of an infinite mass, that mass does not move and the ball's velocity is reversed. The momentum is still conserved, but since the mass of the wall is essentially infinite, its velocity is infinitesimal.
You might also like to view...
When we speak of the large-scale structure of the universe, we mean
A) the overall arrangement of galaxies, clusters of galaxies, and superclusters in the universe. B) the structure of any large galaxy. C) the structure of any individual cluster of galaxies. D) the overall shape of the observable universe.
We see differential rotation at Uranus and Neptune such that the equator is moving slower than higher latitudes
Indicate whether the statement is true or false
Amy, Brad, and Cate are walking (or running) along a straight line as represented below
Which of the following is not a volcano or the result thereof?
a. A batholith b. A mountain peak that spews lava c. A cinder cone d. A caldera