Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Momentum

Momentum — practice question

Particles $P$, with mass $0.4\,\text{kg}$, and $Q$, with mass $0.5\,\text{kg}$, are free to move on a smooth horizontal plane. $P$ and $Q$ travel straight towards one another at speeds $2.5\,\text{m s}^{-1}$ and $1.5\,\text{m s}^{-1}$ respectively. After the collision between $P$ and $Q$, the speed of $Q$ is twice that of $P$.
(main)[4]

Find the two possible values for the speed of $P$ after the collision.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 4-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Momentum just before impact, e.g. $0.4 \times 2.5 - 0.5 \times 1.5$

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