For each of the following collisions, argue for or against the collision being a

Question

For each of the following collisions, argue for or against the collision being at least approximately isolated. In each case the system is indicated. If the collision is not isolated then explain what external force(s) cause it to not be isolated

(a) A billiard ball is rolling along on a pool table. It collides with another billiard ball that is sitting stationary in the middle of the table, with no other billiard balls near it. [System:two billiard balls]

(b) The same two billiard balls collide again, but this time the stationary one is in contact with the side of the table during the collision. [System: two billiard balls]

(c) Two ships collide. The ships are in the middle of the ocean. Both of their engines are running (i.e. their propellors are turning, pushing both ships forward) and the whole collision takes a rather long time (the buckling of the ships hulls lasts for several seconds before the collision is over). [System: two ships]

Explanation / Answer

the collision in the part a) and c) is approximately isolated because the linear momentum would be conserved in this case.

in a) the balls roll with very little friction hence linear momentum will be conserved

in case b) one billiard table is in contact with the table so it would experience force from side of the table during collision, hence the linear momentum would not be conserved.

in case c) SInce ships takes a long time to collide, linear momentum can be assumed conserved.

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