IB Physics SL A 2 16 Linear Momentum Conservation Questions
Practise IB Physics SL A.2.16 by calculating momentum before and after collisions and applying conservation in isolated systems.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2025
- Course
- Physics SL
- Level
- SL
Exam points
- Define and apply linear momentum p = mv with consistent vector direction and units.
- Apply conservation of total linear momentum when no resultant external force acts, using complete collision or interaction evidence.
IB Physics SL A 2 16 Linear Momentum Conservation Questions question 1
[Maximum number: 2]
Assuming that the lithium-7 nucleus in (b) is at rest, suggest why, in terms of conservation of momentum, the neutron initiating the reaction must have an energy greater than 2.5 MeV .
2.5 MeV must be converted to mass (in the interaction) / otherwise the products would not be moving;
(to conserve momentum) final products must have total momentum equal to that of incoming neutron (so extra energy is required) / OWTTE;
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