University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 8 - Momentum, Impulse, and Collision - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 262: Q8.1

Answer

Yes, a heavy hammer is more effective.

Work Step by Step

When the hammer strikes the wedge, we want the hammer and wedge to continue moving forward into the wood. The heavy hammer head carries more momentum at any given speed than the light head, and this transfers to the wedge and drives it deeper into the wood.
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