Physics

Physics

Problem

A car of mass 1200 kg1200\,\text{kg} is moving at 15 m s−115\,\text{m\,s}^{-1}, a truck of mass 6000 kg6000\,\text{kg} at 2.5 m s−12.5\,\text{m\,s}^{-1} and a motorcycle of mass 200 kg200\,\text{kg} at 60 m s−160\,\text{m\,s}^{-1}. Which vehicle has the greatest magnitude of linear momentum? a) Truck b) Car c) Motorcycle d) All three are equal
Intuitive explanation

Momentum isn't just about speed—it's the product of mass and velocity, so a lighter object moving very fast can pack as much "oomph" as a heavy object crawling along. Calculate p=mvp = mv for each vehicle and compare the magnitudes directly; the largest product wins, regardless of which vehicle is heaviest or fastest individually.

Intuitive explanation

Momentum isn't just about speed—it's the product of mass and velocity, so a lighter object moving very fast can pack as much "oomph" as a heavy object crawling along. Calculate p=mvp = mv for each vehicle and compare the magnitudes directly; the largest product wins, regardless of which vehicle is heaviest or fastest individually.

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