Question

If two masses m₁ and m₂ collide with each other. The velocities before collision are $u_1$ and $u_2$ respectively. After the collision, the velocities are $v_1$and $v_2$ respectively. What is the final momentum after the collision?

• A. M₁ x V₂ + M₂ x V₁
• B. M₁ x u₂ + M₂ x u₁
• C. M₁ x u₁ + M₂ x u₂
• D. M₁ x u₁ + M₂ x V₁

Answer 1

The correct option is C

M₁ x u₁ + M₂ x u₂

We know, Momentum = Mass x velocity

So initial momentum of body of mass $m_1$ = $m_1$ $u_1$,

initial momentum of body of mass $m_2$ = $m_2$ $u_2$.

Total initial momentum before collision = $m_1$ $u_1$ + $m_2$ $u_2$

According to the law of conservation of momentum, the total momentum is conserved i.e initial momentum is equal to final momentum.

So we can say $m_1$ $u_1$ + $m_2$ $u_2$ = Final momentum