Question

Two particles approach each other with different velocities. After collision, one of the particles has a momentum p in their centre of mass frame. In the same frame the momentum of the other particle is

Answer 1

Here, the event is occurring in centre of mass frame.

As per the question,the two particles will undergo collision.

The momentum of the first particle in the centre of mass frame is p.

We are asked to calculate the momentum of the other particle in that frame.

We know that the centre of mass frame is an inertial frame and the total momentum of any system in centre of mass frame is zero.

As the momentum of first particle is p, so the momentum of the other particle must be equal in magnitude i.e p ,but,it will be opposite as compared to the momentum of first particle.