Chapter 5, Problem 13RQ

When can the momentum of two moving objects be canceled?

To determine

The condition that the momentum of the two moving objects is canceled.

Answer to Problem 13RQ

The momentum of the moving objects can be canceled due to the movement of both objects opposite to each other.

Explanation of Solution

The momentum of the object is a physical quantity that is an indication of the movement of the object. The variation in the momentum of the object is the same as the force that is acting on the object. The momentum of the objects never changes in the absence of any external force.

If two identical objects move with the same velocity in the absence of external force, then the momentum of both objects does not change. The momentum of the two moving objects cancels if both objects move opposite to each other.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the momentum of the moving objects canceled due to the movement of both objects opposite to each other.