Answer
The correct answer is (b) The amount of momentum lost by the SUV is equal to the momentum gained by the compact.
In an inelastic collision, momentum is conserved.
Work Step by Step
The two vehicles collide, so momentum is conserved. We can assume that the collision is an inelastic collision, so kinetic energy is not conserved.
(a) This statement is not true. Kinetic energy is not conserved in an inelastic collision.
(b) This statement is true. In an inelastic collision, momentum is conserved.
(c) This statement is not true. By Newton's third law, both vehicles feel the same magnitude of force.
(d) This is not necessarily true. In fact, the smaller vehicle could even gain kinetic energy from the collision.
