Momentum and Collisions (Photogates)
Recommended for grades 11–14.
Introduction
You may have learned that a moving object possesses kinetic energy. Momentum is another property of an object, related to its mass and velocity, which is useful to describe its behavior. Momentum, p, is the product of the mass and velocity of an object, p = mv.
You may have learned that an external force produces a change in the momentum of an object. If we consider as our system two carts that undergo a collision, then any forces they exert on one another are internal to the system. In this experiment you will examine the momentum of both carts before and after collisions to see what effect, if any, these forces have on the momentum of a system.
Objectives
In this experiment, you will
- Collect velocity-time data for two carts experiencing different types of collisions.
- Compare the system momentum before and after collisions.
- Compare the kinetic energy of the system before and after collisions.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
No standards correlations for this experiment.
Experiment 11B from Advanced Physics with Vernier - Mechanics Lab Book
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.