Chapter 9.2, Problem 34SSC

To determine

To Describe: Initial momentum of the players.

Answer to Problem 34SSC

Initial momentum of player must be equal in magnitude and opposite in direction.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Momentum:

Product of mass of an object and its velocity is equal to its momentum.

During soccer game, when two players from opposite directions collide and when they try to head the ball, that time after collision, they come to rest. It means final momentum of players become zero. According to law of conservation of momentum, initial momentum must be equal to final momentum. Hence, initial momentum of players must be equal and opposite to each other.

Conclusion: Initial momentum of player must be equal in magnitude and opposite in direction.