Question

In a science fiction novel two enemies, Bonzo and Ender, are fighting in outer spce. From stationary positions, they push against each other. Bonzo flies off with a velocity of 1.1 m/s, while Ender recoils with a velocity of -4.3 m/s. Determine the ratio Bonzo/mEnder of the masses of these two enemies.

Answer 1

the ratio Bonzo/mEnder of the masses of these two enemies is 3.91

Step-by-step explanation:

Given the data in the question;

Velocity of Bonzo
`V_{Bonzo` = 1.1 m/s

Velocity of Ender
`V_{Ender` = -4.3 m/s

the ratio Bonzo/mEnder of the masses of these two enemies = ?

Now, using the law of conservation of momentum.

momentum of both Bonzo and Ender are conserved

so

Initial momentum = final momentum

we have

0 =
`m_{Bonzo` ×
`V_{Bonzo` +
`m_{Ender` ×
`V_{Ender`

`m_{Bonzo` ×
`V_{Bonzo` = -[
`m_{Ender` ×
`V_{Ender` ]

`m_{Bonzo` /
`m_{Ender` = -[
`V_{Ender` /
`V_{Bonzo` ]

we substitute

`m_{Bonzo` /
`m_{Ender` = -[ -4.3 m/s / 1.1 m/s ]

`m_{Bonzo` /
`m_{Ender` = -[ -3.9090 ]

`m_{Bonzo` /
`m_{Ender` = 3.91

Therefore, the ratio Bonzo/mEnder of the masses of these two enemies is 3.91