Question

multiple choice 1 point
two objects of different masses collide & apply a force on each other. which object had a larger acceleration?
the object with more mass.
the object with less mass.
neither. the force has the same effect on both.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Newton's second law

Newton's second law is \(F = ma\), where \(F\) is force, \(m\) is mass, and \(a\) is acceleration. So, \(a=\frac{F}{m}\).

Step2: Analyze the relationship between force, mass and acceleration

When two objects collide, the force \(F\) they exert on each other is equal in magnitude (by Newton's third law). Let the forces be \(F_1 = F_2\). For the first object with mass \(m_1\) and acceleration \(a_1\), \(a_1=\frac{F_1}{m_1}\). For the second object with mass \(m_2\) and acceleration \(a_2\), \(a_2=\frac{F_2}{m_2}\). Since \(F_1 = F_2\), if \(m_1>m_2\), then \(a_1 < a_2\) (because \(a\) and \(m\) are inversely proportional when \(F\) is constant).

Answer:

The object with less mass.