A stationary particle explodes into two particles of masses m1 and m2 which move in opposite directions with velocities v1 and v2. The ratio of their kinetic energies E1/E2 is :
- m2/m1
- m1/m2
- 1
- m1v2/m2v1
Answer
(1) m2/m1
Solution
Initial momentum is zero ⇒ by conservation of linear momentum m1v1 = m2v2 = p (equal magnitudes).
Kinetic energy in terms of momentum: E = p22m
⇒ E1E2 = p2/2m1p2/2m2
= m2m1
Answer: (1)