Two satellites with equal rest masses of 100 kg are traveling toward each other in deep space. One is traveling at 0.650c and the other at 0.850c. The satellites collide and stick together. What is the rest mass of the combined object after the collision?
A) 100 kg
B) 200 kg
C) 277 kg
D) 378 kg
E) 312 kg

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is E.The rest mass of the combined object after the collision is 312 kg. This is because the rest mass of an object is invariant, meaning that it does not change with its velocity. When the two satellites collide, their kinetic energy is converted into internal energy, but their rest masses remain the same.

Two Satellites with Equal Rest Masses of 100 Kg Are