Question

which has more momentum: a car stopped at a red light or a bike moving at 15 mph? they are equal bike cannot determine using the info provided car

Explanation:

Step1: Define momentum formula

Momentum is defined as $p = m \times v$, where $m$ = mass, $v$ = velocity.

Step2: Calculate car's momentum

The car is stopped, so $v_{car} = 0$.
$p_{car} = m_{car} \times 0 = 0$

Step3: Calculate bike's momentum

The bike moves at $v_{bike} = 15$ mph (non-zero).
$p_{bike} = m_{bike} \times 15$
Since $m_{bike} > 0$, $p_{bike} > 0$.

Step4: Compare the two values

$p_{bike} > 0 = p_{car}$

Answer:

bike