Question

which of the following options correctly ranks the vehicles by increasing momentum, from left to right?
a. 1; 2; 3; 4
b. 2; 4; 1; 3
c. 3; 1; 4; 2
d. 2; 1; 4; 3

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate momentum for each vehicle

Momentum formula: \(p = mv\) (where \(p\) is momentum, \(m\) is mass, \(v\) is velocity)
For vehicle 1: \(p_1=450.0\times40.0 = 18000\space kg\cdot m/s\)
For vehicle 2: \(p_2=600.0\times45.0=27000\space kg\cdot m/s\)
For vehicle 3: \(p_3 = 260.0\times55.0=14300\space kg\cdot m/s\)
For vehicle 4: \(p_4=1150.0\times20.0 = 23000\space kg\cdot m/s\)

Step2: Compare the momentum values

\(p_3(14300)<p_1(18000)<p_4(23000)<p_2(27000)\)

Answer:

C. \(3;1;4;2\)