A stationary bomb explodes into two pieces of masses 3 kg and 1 kg. Their total kinetic energy is 2400 J. Find kinetic energy of the smaller piece (J).
Physics · Mixed Chapter
JEE Main Practice

Question

A stationary bomb explodes into two pieces of masses 3 kg and 1 kg. Their total kinetic energy is 2400 J. Find kinetic energy of the smaller piece (J).

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Step 1: Initial momentum is zero, so final momenta are equal in magnitude: p₁ = p₂ = p. Step 2: K = p²/(2m), so K₁kg/K₃kg = 3/1. Step 3: Let larger piece energy be x, then smaller piece energy is 3x. Step 4: 4x = 2400 ⇒ smaller piece K = 3×600 = 1800 J.