Q. In an elastic head on collision between two particles
A) Velocity of separation is equal to the velocity of approach
B) Velocity of the target is always more than the velocity of the projectile
C) The maximum velocity of the target is double to that of the projectile
D) Maximum transfer of kinetic energy occurs when masses of both projectile and target are equal
Explanation
(a) For elastic collision $e = 1$ and velocity of separation is equal to velocity of approach. The velocity of the target may be more, equal or less than that of projectile depending on their masses.
The maximum velocity of target is double to that of projectile, when projectile is extremely massive as compared to the target.
Maximum kinetic energy is transferred from projectile to target when their masses are exactly equal.
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.