Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Linear momentum and its conservation

Linear momentum and its conservation — practice question

The diagram depicts particle P moving at speed $v$ and just about to strike a stationary particle Q with the same mass. The collision is perfectly elastic. Which statement gives the motion of P and of Q immediately after the collision?

  • AP rebounds with speed $\frac{1}{2}v$ and Q acquires speed $\frac{1}{2}v$.
  • BP rebounds with speed $v$ and Q remains stationary.
  • CP and Q both travel in the same direction with speed $\frac{1}{2}v$.
  • DP comes to a standstill and Q acquires speed $v$.

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