Students explore conservation of momentum with real-world machinery in this Collision Cart.
- Lab Uses the Same Methods as Engineers
- Weight Plates Can Be Added to Change Variables between Experiments
- Carts' Front and Back Bumpers Demonstrate Elastic and Inelastic Collisions
- Students Gather Velocity Data and Compare Their Calculations to Theoretical Value
They investigate conservation of momentum and calculate change in velocity to discover how an elastic bumper affects the crashes between a light and heavy cart. Carts' front and back bumpers demonstrate elastic and inelastic collisions.
The carts are places on the inclined plane. When a photogate is attached to the sliding fence, students can gather accurate velocity data and compare their real calculations to theoretical value. This activity requires an inclined plane, FUN Stand, and photogate system, available separately.