Physics

Physics

Problem

Two identical solid disks A and B rest on a frictionless horizontal surface with their flat faces touching so that their rims are in contact. Disk A is initially spinning counterclockwise about its center; disk B is at rest. During the brief interval while the rims are in contact, there is no external torque on the two-disk system. Which statement best describes how the angular momenta of the disks change during this interaction? a) Disk A loses angular momentum, and disk B gains a smaller amount in the counterclockwise direction, with the rest converted to thermal energy. b) Disk A gains additional counterclockwise angular momentum, and disk B gains an equal amount of clockwise angular momentum. c) Disk A loses angular momentum, and disk B gains an equal amount in the counterclockwise direction. d) Disk A loses angular momentum, and disk B gains an equal amount in the clockwise direction.

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