Two objects of different masses have momentum of equal, non-zero magnitude. Which object has more kinetic energy?
A) the lighter object
B) the heavier object
C) They both have the same kinetic energy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The kinetic energy (KE) of an object is given by the formula KE = 1/2 mv^2, where m is the mass and v is the velocity of the object. Momentum (p) is given by the formula p = mv. If two objects have the same momentum but different masses, the lighter object must have a higher velocity to compensate for its smaller mass. Since kinetic energy depends on the square of the velocity, the lighter object with the higher velocity will have more kinetic energy.

Two Objects of Different Masses Have Momentum of Equal, Non-Zero