In a science fiction novel two enemies, Bonzo and Ender, are fighting in outer space. From stationary positions they push against each other. Bonzo flies off with a velocity of +1.7 m/s, while Ender recoils with a velocity of −2.7 m/s.
(b) Determine the ratio mBonzo/mEnder of the masses of these two enemies.
1.7
To determine the ratio of the masses of Bonzo and Ender, we can use the principle of conservation of momentum.
The principle states that the total momentum of an isolated system remains constant before and after the collision.
Momentum (p) is defined as the product of an object's mass (m) and its velocity (v): p = m × v.
In this case, we have two objects. Initially, both objects are stationary, so their initial momentum is zero.
After the collision, Bonzo flies off with a velocity of +1.7 m/s, while Ender recoils with a velocity of -2.7 m/s.
Let's assign the mass of Bonzo as mBonzo and the mass of Ender as mEnder.
Using the principle of conservation of momentum, we can set up the equation:
(mBonzo × 1.7 m/s) + (mEnder × (-2.7 m/s)) = 0
Simplifying the equation, we get:
1.7mBonzo - 2.7mEnder = 0
Now, we can rearrange the equation to solve for the ratio mBonzo/mEnder:
mBonzo/mEnder = (2.7mEnder) / (1.7mBonzo)
This equation allows us to find the ratio of the masses of Bonzo and Ender.