Question

A very light body (m_1​) collides elastically with a very heavy body (m₂​) that is initially at rest. What is the approximate final velocity of the light body (v₁​)?

Options

• v₁ ≈ u₁

• v₁ ≈ -u₁

• v₁ ≈ 2u₁

• v₁ ≈ 0

Answer 1

v₁ ≈ -u₁

Explanation:

The light body essentially 'bounce back' with its speed unchanged, as shown in the 'Heavier Target' case study.