Solve this multiple-choice question and choose the correct option.

Given data m1 > m2 and K1 = K2. Concept/Approach For a body: K = p2 / (2m) ⇒ p = √(2mK). Step-by-step calculation p1 = √(2 m1 K), p2 = √(2 m2 K). Since m1 > m2 and K is common, √(m1) > √(m2). Therefore p1 > p2. Common pitfall Assuming equal KE means equal momentum — only true if masses are equal. Final Answer Momentum of m1 is greater than momentum of m2

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Momentum comparison at equal kinetic energy: Two masses m1 and m2 (m1 > m2). Condition: Kinetic energies of both bodies are equal. Choose the correct comparison of their momenta.

Difficulty: Easy

Momentum of m1 is greater than momentum of m2
Momentum of m1 equals momentum of m2
Momentum of m1 is less than momentum of m2
Cannot be determined

Correct Answer: Momentum of m1 is greater than momentum of m2

Explanation:

Given data

m₁ > m₂ and K₁ = K₂.

Concept/Approach For a body: K = p² / (2m) ⇒ p = √(2mK).

Step-by-step calculation p₁ = √(2 m₁ K), p₂ = √(2 m₂ K). Since m₁ > m₂ and K is common, √(m₁) > √(m₂). Therefore p₁ > p₂.

Common pitfall Assuming equal KE means equal momentum — only true if masses are equal.

Momentum comparison at equal kinetic energy: Two masses m1 and m2 (m1 > m2). Condition: Kinetic energies of both bodies are equal. Choose the correct comparison of their momenta.

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