Both masses in a collision between two unequal masses receive impulses of equal magnitude but opposite directions, as defined by the conservation of momentum.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a collision between two unequal masses, both masses receive impulses of equal magnitude but in opposite directions, according to the law of conservation of momentum. This is because impulse is defined as the change in momentum, and during a collision, the momentum lost by one object is gained by the other, ensuring that the total momentum of the system remains constant, provided that no external forces act on the system.
The given options for the student's question are: a. they receive equal impulses, b. the smaller mass, c. the larger mass, d. cannot be determined without their velocities. The correct answer is a. they receive equal impulses.