Chapter 9, Problem 98A

To determine

To explain: The way air bags save lives.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Momentum is mathematically defined as it is the product of mass and velocity.

According to the Newton’s second law, the rate of change of momentum is directly proportional to the force acting on object.

  $F=\frac{\Delta p}{\Delta t}$

Here,

  $\Delta p$ is change in momentum.

  $\Delta t$ is time interval.

When the change of momentum occurs in a very short interval of time, then body will experience a very large amount of force. If the time interval is increase to some extent, then the body will experience a less amount of force.

During collision, the air bags increase the time interval of change in momentum of the passenger which reduces the force on the passenger. Therefore, passenger will experience a less amount of force.

Again, during collision, the air bags spread over the large area and it reduces pressure acting on the body of passenger.

Thus, air bags can save the lives during accident.

Conclusion:

The air bags reduce the amount of force due to change in momentum and it also reduces the pressure acting on body.