Momentum & Impulse Lab

WHAT ARE MOMENTUM AND IMPULSE?

Linear momentum () is a measure of an object's motion, defined as the product of its mass and velocity (). It is a vector quantity, meaning direction matters. **Impulse** () is the change in momentum resulting from a force applied over a period of time. In AP Physics 1, the Impulse-Momentum Theorem states that the impulse delivered to an object is equal to its change in momentum: .

CONSERVATION OF MOMENTUM

In a closed system where no external net force acts, the total momentum remains constant: . This principle applies to all collisions, whether they are **elastic** (kinetic energy is conserved) or **inelastic** (kinetic energy is lost to heat/sound). In a **perfectly inelastic** collision, the objects stick together and move with a common final velocity.

HOW TO USE THIS VISUALIZATION

1. **Choose Collision Type**: Switch between Elastic and Inelastic modes. 2. **Adjust Mass and Velocity**: Change the parameters for Object 1 and Object 2. 3. **Run Simulation**: Observe the "Before" and "After" momentum vectors. Notice how the total momentum vector (sum of and ) remains unchanged.

CORE FORMULAS

AP EXAM CONNECTION

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Total momentum is conserved in any system with no net external force.
• Elastic collisions conserve both momentum and kinetic energy.
• Inelastic collisions conserve momentum but convert some kinetic energy to other forms.
• Impulse is the change in momentum: .

PRACTICE QUESTIONS