Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 6 - Think and Explain - Page 106-107: 80

Answer

The collision is more damaging if the cars bounce.

Work Step by Step

The momentum change for a car is greater if it bounces backward compared to when it sticks to the other car. To produce this greater impulse, a larger force is required, which means more damage.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.