A tennis ball has a velocity of 12 m/s downward just before it strikes the ground and bounces up with a velocity of 12 m/s upward. Which statement is true concerning this situation?
A)The momentum of the ball and the momentum of the earth both change.
B)Neither the momentum of the ball nor the momentum of the earth changes.
C)The momentum of the ball is changed; and the momentum of the earth is not changed.
D)The momentum of the ball is unchanged; and the momentum of the earth is changed.
E)Both the momentum and the kinetic energy of the ball change because of the collision.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The momentum of the ball changes direction upon bouncing, and according to the conservation of momentum, the earth's momentum also changes, albeit imperceptibly due to its large mass.

A Tennis Ball Has a Velocity of 12 M/s Downward