Questions: An inelastic collision of two objects is characterized by the following. Total momentum of the system is conserved. Total kinetic energy of the system remains constant. Total energy of the system remains constant. A and C are both true. A and B are both true.

Solution Steps

In an inelastic collision, two objects collide and stick together, or at least do not bounce off each other completely. The key characteristics of inelastic collisions are:

• Total momentum is conserved: The law of conservation of momentum states that the total momentum of a closed system remains constant if no external forces act on it.
• Total kinetic energy is not conserved: In inelastic collisions, some of the kinetic energy is transformed into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound, so the total kinetic energy after the collision is less than before.
• Total energy is conserved: While kinetic energy is not conserved, the total energy, including all forms of energy, remains constant.

Let's analyze each statement in the context of inelastic collisions:

• Statement A: Total momentum of the system is conserved. This is true for inelastic collisions.
• Statement B: Total kinetic energy of the system remains constant. This is false for inelastic collisions, as kinetic energy is not conserved.
• Statement C: Total energy of the system remains constant. This is true, as energy conservation includes all forms of energy, not just kinetic.

Given the analysis:

• Statement A is true.
• Statement B is false.
• Statement C is true.

The correct combination of true statements is "A and C are both true."

Final Answer