What Happens When a Bug Collides with a Big Rig Windshield?

[alexc1ut]

Homework Statement

A bug flies into the windshield of a big rig that is traveling on the freeway. What type of collision is this? Is momentum conserved? Is energy conserved? What force does the bug exert on the windshield (make a statement about Newton’s 3rd Law)?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

- I know that this is an inelastic collision because the bug goes splat. Energy is conserved because the mechanical energy is converted to heat or sound. I don't think momentum is conserved. I need help with Newton's 3rd law

 

[rock.freak667]

The Attempt at a Solution

You will need to post this before we can help you.

 

[tomcue]

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I would like to clarify that the type of collision between the bug and the windshield of the big rig is an inelastic collision. In an inelastic collision, the objects involved stick together and some of the kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound. Therefore, energy is not conserved in this case.

However, momentum is conserved in all types of collisions. This means that the total momentum of the system (bug and big rig) before the collision is equal to the total momentum after the collision. In this case, the bug's momentum is transferred to the big rig, causing it to slow down slightly.

As for Newton's third law, it states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In this scenario, the bug exerts a force on the windshield, causing it to break or deform. At the same time, the windshield exerts an equal and opposite force on the bug, causing it to splat. This is a classic example of Newton's third law in action.

I hope this helps clarify any confusion and provides a more accurate understanding of the principles of Newton's laws and energy conservation.