Two particles of masses m₁m₂ move with the same momentum but different kinetic energies E₁ and E₂. Which statement is true?

Question

Two particles of masses m₁>m₂ move with the same momentum but different kinetic energies E₁ and E₂. Which statement is true?

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Step 1 — Principle: At fixed momentum, kinetic energy can be written K = p²/(2m). Step 2 — Working: For fixed momentum p, E=p²/(2m), so KE is inversely proportional to mass. Step 3 — Working: Hence m₁>m₂ implies E₁<E₂. Correct answer: A — E₁ < E₂.