Question

Determine the character of the collision. The masses of the blocks, and the velocities before…

Collision:

m1 = 2kg
m2 = 8 kg
m1(init) = 0.8 m/s
m2(init) = -2 m/s
m1(final) = -1.2 m/s
m2(final) = 1.2 m/s

The collision is:
A) perfectly elastic
B) characterized by an increase in kinetic energy
C) partially inelastic
D) completely inelastic
E) not possible because momentum is not conserved.

I don't understand why the answer isn't E (since the momentum isn't conserved, right?) My professor's answer key says the answer should be C, which would make sense ifmomentum was conserved.

Expert Solution