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Chapter 3: Problem 3

Could the linear momentum of a turtle be greater than the linear momentum of a horse? Explain why or why not.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Under normal circumstances, it is highly unlikely for a turtle to have a greater linear momentum than a horse due to their much smaller mass and slower typical velocities. However, in an extreme or highly unlikely scenario, if a turtle were to achieve a high enough velocity, it could potentially have a greater linear momentum than a horse.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the concept of linear momentum

Linear momentum is a vector quantity and is the product of an object's mass and its velocity. It can be represented mathematically as: p = m*v, where p is the linear momentum, m is the mass, and v is the velocity. Conceptually, an object with a higher linear momentum is more difficult to stop than an object with a lower linear momentum.
02

Identify the factors that can affect linear momentum

Linear momentum is dependent on two factors: mass and velocity. An object with a greater mass or a greater velocity will have a greater linear momentum. To compare the linear momentum of a turtle and a horse, we need to consider their respective masses and velocities.
03

Consider the mass of a turtle and a horse

Typically, a turtle has a much smaller mass compared to a horse. For example, an adult sea turtle might weigh around 100 kg (220 lbs), whereas an adult horse can weigh anywhere from 380 kg (840 lbs) to 1000 kg (2200 lbs). Since the mass of a horse is significantly greater than a turtle, under normal circumstances, a turtle would need to have a much higher velocity than a horse in order to have a greater linear momentum.
04

Consider the possible velocities of a turtle and a horse

Turtles, especially on land, are generally considered to be slow-moving creatures, with top speeds ranging from 0.2 km/h to 0.5 km/h. Horses, on the other hand, are fast-running animals, with top speeds of around 50 km/h to 60 km/h. Given the typical velocity range of a turtle compared to a horse, it would be challenging for a turtle to achieve a velocity high enough to compensate for its much smaller mass and have a greater linear momentum than a horse.
05

Conclude if a turtle can have a greater linear momentum than a horse

In order for a turtle to have a greater linear momentum than a horse, it would need to achieve a significantly higher velocity to compensate for its much smaller mass. Considering the typical velocities of both animals, it is highly unlikely for a turtle to have a greater linear momentum than a horse under normal circumstances. However, it's important to note that linear momentum is dependent on velocity, which can change under extreme or specific conditions. In a highly unlikely or contrived scenario, if a turtle were to achieve a high enough velocity, it could potentially have a greater linear momentum than a horse.

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