Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 3: Problem 5

For what type of interaction between bodies is the law of conservation of linear momentum most useful?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The law of conservation of linear momentum is most useful for elastic collisions.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Law of Conservation of Linear Momentum

The law of conservation of linear momentum states that if no external forces are acting on a system of particles, the total linear momentum of the system remains constant. Mathematically, this is expressed as: Δp = 0, where p is the linear momentum and Δp is the change in linear momentum.
02

Identify Types of Interactions for Conservation of Linear Momentum

Conservation of linear momentum is applicable to various types of interactions, such as: 1. Elastic collisions: Both kinetic energy and linear momentum are conserved. 2. Inelastic collisions: Linear momentum is conserved, but kinetic energy is not conserved. 3. Perfectly inelastic collisions: Linear momentum is conserved, and the two colliding objects stick together after the collision. 4. Explosions: Linear momentum is conserved as the system's total momentum is unchanged before and after the explosion.
03

Determine the Most Useful Type of Interaction

The law of conservation of linear momentum is most useful for collisions between bodies, as it allows for the prediction of final velocities and masses after the collision. In particular, it is most applicable to elastic collisions, where both linear momentum and kinetic energy are conserved. This simplifies calculations and analysis, making it easier to study the dynamics of the system. So, the answer is: The law of conservation of linear momentum is most useful for elastic collisions.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

It is possible for a body to be both spinning and moving in a circle in such a way that its total angular momentum is zero. Describe how this can be.

During a head-on collision of two automobiles, the occupants are decelerated rapidly. Use the idea of work to explain why an air bag that quickly inflates in front of an occupant reduces the likelihood of injury.

A ball is thrown straight upward on the Moon. Is the maximum height it reaches less than, equal to, or greater than the maximum height reached by a ball thrown upward on the Earth with the same initial speed (no air resistance in both cases)? Explain.

Two cranes are lifting identical steel beams at the same time. One crane is putting out twice as much power as the other. Assuming friction is negligible, what can you conclude is happening to explain this difference?

What is a conservation law? What is the basic approach taken when using a conservation law?
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Physics Textbooks

Electric Charge Field and Potential

Read Explanation

Fundamentals of Physics

Read Explanation

Turning Points in Physics

Read Explanation

Dynamics

Read Explanation

Radiation

Read Explanation

Famous Physicists

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free