When two bodies collide head-on and then continue to travel collectively in the original direction of motion of one of the bodies, what factor determines the direction of collective motion after the collision?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The direction of collective motion after a head-on collision is determined by the relative momenta of the two bodies. The body with the higher momentum will typically carry the other body with it in the same direction of motion.

When Two Bodies Collide Head-On and Then Continue to Travel