Step 1: Understanding elastic collision.
In an elastic collision, both momentum and kinetic energy (K.E) are conserved. This type of collision occurs when no energy is lost to sound, heat, or deformation, and all the energy is retained in the system.
Step 2: Conservation laws.
- Momentum Conservation: In an isolated system, the total momentum before and after the collision remains the same.
- Kinetic Energy Conservation: In an elastic collision, the total kinetic energy before and after the collision is also conserved.
Step 3: Analysis of options.
\begin{itemize}
\item (A) both momentum and K.E is conserved: Correct. Both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved in an elastic collision.
\item (B) only K.E is conserved: Incorrect. While kinetic energy is conserved in an elastic collision, momentum is also conserved.
\item (C) only momentum is conserved: Incorrect. While momentum is conserved, so is kinetic energy in an elastic collision.
\item (D) neither momentum nor K.E is conserved: Incorrect. Both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved in an elastic collision.
\end{itemize}
Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, for an elastic collision, both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved.
Final Answer: Both momentum and K.E is conserved.