Answer to Question #100042 in Mechanics | Relativity for Steve

Question

What would happen if I hit a 50 kg lump of lead with another 50 kg lump of lead ( both the same size,shape,density). , with respect to the damage to each block of lead? Would the one being hit sustain more damage or would it be the same to each?

Answer 1

There is no difference in damage that both lumps acquire because according to Newton's second law, the action results in the reaction same in magnitude and directed along the same line. The kinetic energy of a moving lump converts to kinetic energy of the resting lump plus energy required for deformation. The deformation depends on forces, which are equal according to Newton's second law.