Two particles \(P\) and \(Q\) each of mass \(3 \mathrm{~m}\) lie at rest on the \(\mathrm{X}\)-axis at…
Two particles \(P\) and \(Q\) each of mass \(3 \mathrm{~m}\) lie at rest on the \(\mathrm{X}\)-axis at points \((-a, 0)\) and \((+a, 0)\), respectively. A third particle \(R\) of mass \(2 \mathrm{~m}\) initially at the origin moves towards the particle \(Q\). If all the collisions of the system of 3 particles are elastic and head on, the total number of collisions in the system is
2
3
4
5
Solution
According to question, three particles are situated as shown below,
\(\because\) All the collision of the system of 3 particles are elastic and head on.
So, collision of R and Q,
Hence, \(R\) and \(Q\) will never collide after 1 st collision.
\(\therefore\) Total numbers of collision is 2.
