Question

A potato falling vertically downward is struck by a dart that is traveling vertically upward, as shown above. The dart and potato then collide, stick together, and continue moving after the collision.The weight of the dart is W. Which of the following claims best describes the magnitude of the net force on the dart immediately before, during, and immediately after the collision with the potato?

A) The net force on the dart is greater immediately before and during the collision than immediately after.

B) The net force on the dart is the same immediately before, during, and immediately after the collision.

C) The net force on the dart is greater immediately after the collision than immediately before and during.

D) The net force on the dart is greater during the collision than immediately before and immediately after.

Answer 1

The magnitude of the net force on the dart is greater immediately before and during the collision than immediately after.

Step-by-step explanation:

The magnitude of the net force on the dart is greater immediately before and during the collision than immediately after. Before and during the collision, the dart is moving vertically upward and is opposed by the force of gravity, resulting in a greater net force. However, immediately after the collision, the combined dart and potato move upward with a reduced velocity, resulting in a smaller net force.