Final Answer:
Changing the mass of the sled increases the force during the collision, as per Newton's second law (F = m a), where force is directly proportional to mass. In this case, a higher sled mass leads to a greater force exerted on the snowmen.Thus option a is the correct option.
Step-by-step explanation:
Changing the mass of the sled affects the collision between the snowmen and the sled by increasing the force involved. According to Newton's second law, force (F) is directly proportional to mass (m) and acceleration (a) (F = m a). In this scenario, when the mass of the sled increases, the force applied during the collision also increases. The relationship between force and mass is linear, meaning that an increase in mass results in a proportional increase in force.
In simple terms, when the sled's mass is greater, it requires more force to achieve the same acceleration during the collision. This is because the mass becomes a determining factor in the overall force exerted. The collision involves the exchange of momentum, and with a higher mass, the sled imparts a greater force on the snowmen.
To illustrate, consider the formula F = m a. If the acceleration remains constant, increasing the mass (m) will result in a higher force (F). This relationship aligns with the direct correlation between force and mass, supporting the conclusion that increasing the mass of the sled leads to an increased force during the collision with the snowmen.
Therefore option a is the correct option.