Answer :
To solve this problem, we'll apply the law of conservation of momentum, which states that in the absence of external forces, the total momentum of a system remains constant before and after a collision.
Since the problem mentions that the collision is elastic, and no external forces are influencing the system, it follows that:
1. Total Initial Momentum = Total Final Momentum
Let's consider the information given:
- The initial momentum of the system is given as 173 kg-m/s north.
Since momentum is conserved in an elastic collision, the total momentum of the system after the collision must remain the same as it was initially. Therefore:
- The total momentum of the system after they collide is also 173 kg-m/s north.
Hence, the correct answer is:
B. 173 kg-m/s north
Since the problem mentions that the collision is elastic, and no external forces are influencing the system, it follows that:
1. Total Initial Momentum = Total Final Momentum
Let's consider the information given:
- The initial momentum of the system is given as 173 kg-m/s north.
Since momentum is conserved in an elastic collision, the total momentum of the system after the collision must remain the same as it was initially. Therefore:
- The total momentum of the system after they collide is also 173 kg-m/s north.
Hence, the correct answer is:
B. 173 kg-m/s north
