Question

The principle of conservation of linear momentum can be strictly applied during a collision between two particles provided the time of impact:

• A. is extremely small
• B. is moderately small
• C. is extremely large
• D. depends on particular case

Hint:

For the principle of conservation of linear momentum to hold, the time of impact should be extremely small so that external forces do not alter the system's momentum.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: The conservation of linear momentum applies when the external forces acting on a system are negligible during the collision.
Step 2: If the time of impact is extremely small, the external forces are effectively zero, and the momentum is conserved during the collision. This is why momentum conservation applies during an instantaneous collision.

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{is extremely small}} \]