Two objects undergo a collision,and there is no external force on the objects.This means that:
A) Both objects move at constant velocity
B) The objects have equal and opposite velocities
C) The center of mass moves with constant velocity
D) The center of mass is stationary

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the law of conservation of momentum, the total momentum of the system (which consists of the two objects) stays constant unless acted upon by an external force. Since there is no external force, the momentum of the system remains constant. This means that the center of mass of the system moves with constant velocity. The individual objects may have different velocities, but they will move in a way that conserves the total momentum of the system. Therefore, option C is correct. Options A and B are incorrect because, in the absence of external forces, the objects may not necessarily move at constant velocity and may have different velocities. Option D is incorrect because the center of mass may be moving with constant velocity, even if it is not stationary.

Two Objects Undergo a Collision,and There Is No External Force