Answer:
A. 0.0 joules
Explanation:
We can calculate the initial kinetic energy of the car, which is given by:
[tex]K=\frac{1}{2}mv^2 = \frac{1}{2}(1,324 kg)(20 m/s)^2=2.65\cdot 10^5 J[/tex]
where m is the mass of the car and v its initial speed. After the collision, the car stops, so its final speed is zero. Therefore, the new kinetic energy of the car will be
[tex]K=\frac{1}{2}(1,324 kg)(0 m/s)^2 = 0 J[/tex]
This type of collision is called 'perfectly inelastic collision', and it occurs when there is the maximum loss of kinetic energy, as in this case. Therefore, the correct answer is
A. 0.0 joules
