Final answer:
When a moving car backs into a parked car, both bumpers can be dented due to the transfer of momentum in the collision. The design and material of the bumpers can also affect the extent of the damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a moving car backs into a parked car, both bumpers can be dented because of the force of the collision. In a collision, there is a transfer of momentum from one object to another. The bumpers on both cars serve as a cushion to absorb some of the force and protect the rest of the car. However, if the force of the collision is significant, the bumpers may still get dented.
For example, if the moving car has a higher mass and velocity than the parked car, it will transfer more momentum to the parked car, causing the bumpers to dent. Conversely, if the parked car has a higher mass, it may transfer more momentum to the moving car, also causing the bumpers to dent. It is important to note that the design and material of the bumpers can also affect the extent of the damage. Bumpers are designed to absorb and distribute the force of a collision, but if the force exceeds their capacity, they can still get dented.