Question

if each object is moving at the same velocity, which will have the least momentum? $p = mv$
golf ball
bowling ball
baseball
tennis ball

Explanation:

Step1: Recall momentum formula

Momentum is given by $p = mv$, where $m$ = mass, $v$ = velocity.

Step2: Analyze variable impact

Since $v$ is constant for all objects, $p$ depends directly on $m$. The smallest mass gives the least momentum.

Step3: Compare object masses

From the options, a tennis ball has the smallest mass (≈0.057 kg) compared to a golf ball (≈0.045 kg? Correction: Wait, standard golf ball is ~0.045 kg, tennis ball ~0.057 kg. Wait no, standard: Golf ball minimum 45.93g, tennis ball 56-59.4g. Wait, no, wait: actually, golf ball is ~0.046 kg, tennis ball ~0.057 kg, baseball ~0.145 kg, bowling ball ~7 kg. So the smallest mass is golf ball? Wait no, wait, let me correct: Standard masses:

• Golf ball: 45.93 g (0.04593 kg)
• Tennis ball: 56-59.4 g (0.056-0.0594 kg)
• Baseball: 141.75-148.87 g (0.14175-0.14887 kg)
• Bowling ball: 6.8-7.26 kg

So the smallest mass is golf ball? Wait no, wait, maybe the question uses common perception? Wait no, the formula is $p=mv$, so lower mass = lower momentum at same velocity.

Wait, let me confirm: Golf ball is ~46g, tennis ~57g. So golf ball is lighter. Wait, but maybe the question has a typo? No, let's go with standard masses.

Wait, no, maybe I mixed up. Let me check again: USGA rules say golf ball max weight 1.62 oz (45.93g). ITF says tennis ball min 1.975 oz (56g). So golf ball is lighter than tennis ball. So golf ball has smaller mass, so least momentum.

Wait, but maybe the question expects tennis ball? No, standard masses: golf ball is lighter.

Wait, let's proceed with the formula:

Step3: Identify smallest mass

Among the options, the golf ball has the smallest mass, so it has the least momentum when velocity is equal.

Answer:

Golf Ball