Question

In a science fiction novel two enemies, Bonzo and Ender, are fighting in outer spce. From stationary positions, they push against each other. Bonzo flies off with a velocity of 1.1 m/s, while Ender recoils with a velocity of -4.3 m/s. Determine the ratio Bonzo/mEnder of the masses of these two enemies.

Answer 1

Answer:

the ratio Bonzo/mEnder of the masses of these two enemies is 3.91

Explanation:

Given the data in the question;

Velocity of Bonzo $V_{Bonzo$ = 1.1 m/s

Velocity of Ender $V_{Ender$ = -4.3 m/s

the ratio Bonzo/mEnder of the masses of these two enemies = ?

Now, using the law of conservation of momentum.

momentum of both Bonzo and Ender are conserved

so

Initial momentum = final momentum

we have

0 = $m_{Bonzo$ × $V_{Bonzo$ + $m_{Ender$ × $V_{Ender$

$m_{Bonzo$ × $V_{Bonzo$ = -[ $m_{Ender$ × $V_{Ender$  ]

$m_{Bonzo$ / $m_{Ender$  = -[ $V_{Ender$ / $V_{Bonzo$ ]

we substitute

$m_{Bonzo$ / $m_{Ender$  = -[ -4.3 m/s / 1.1 m/s ]

$m_{Bonzo$ / $m_{Ender$  = -[ -3.9090 ]

$m_{Bonzo$ / $m_{Ender$  = 3.91

Therefore, the ratio Bonzo/mEnder of the masses of these two enemies is 3.91