In this lab, you will explore how momentum is conserved by generating inelastic collisions between carts. The law of conservation of momentum requires that the total momentum
in the system must remain the same, or be conserved, even though mass or velocities of
moving objects in a system may change.
In order to explore momentum, you will use a virtual air track and gliders with variable
masses and velocities to observe collisions. The collisions will take place under different
conditions, and allow you to verify that momentum is conserved in inelastic collisions.
Since momentum is given by the relationship
p = mv
where p is the momentum, m is mass in kg, and v is velocity in m/s, increasing mass will
require a decrease in velocity for momentum to remain constant. Likewise, maintaining
total momentum while increasing velocity would require a decrease in mass. The law of
conservation of momentum requires that mass and velocity have an inverse relationship
in order for momentum before and after a collision to be constant.
Here are the two inelastic collisions you will set up using the simulation:
1. Inelastic collision: one cart moving, one cart stationary
2. Inelastic collision: both carts moving
For each type of collision, you will perform three trials in which the mass of the second
cart is varied (increased).
Does anyone have the data table and the summary for this?