Collisions Mini Lab

/11 marks - Thinking

Openthis simulation link.

https://www.physicsclassroom.com/Physics-Interactives/Momentum-and-Collisions/Collision-Carts/Collision-Carts-Interactive

Observations/Task

Using the simulation link above, set up the following scenario for an inelastic collision (select button at bottom of simulation).

1. Set up the red car with an initial velocity of +3m/s and mass of 3 kg.
2. Set up the blue car with an initial velocity of -2 m/s and mass of 1 kg.
3. Run the simulation and record final velocity and direction of both cars after the collision.

Observations [3 marks]

Create an appropriate table that includes the following information for each car: mass, initial & final velocity, initial & final momentum, and initial & final kinetic energy. Be sure to follow all proper conventions for a table in a lab. Refer to Lab Skills Booklet for guidelines. You do not need to include uncertainties since this is data from a simulator and does not have the uncertainties incorporated by measurement.

Under your table, include a sample calculation for each value for just one of the two cars.

Analysis [8 marks]

Answer the following questions.

1. Show by calculation whether or not momentum is conserved before and after the collision. Include a percentage error calculation. Use the initial total momentumbefore as the theoretical value for the percentage error calculation. Make a statement on this error and its meaning in terms of the conservation of momentum. [2 marks]

2. Show by calculation if kinetic energy is conserved before and after the collision. Use the initial total kinetic energybefore as the theoretical value for the percentage error calculation. Make a statement on this error and its meaning in terms of the conservation of kinetic energy. [2 marks]

3. Two particles undergo a linear elastic collision. Before the collision, particle 1 of mass 1.5 kg and velocity of 12 m/s [right] is on a collision course with particle 2 of mass 3.5 kg and velocity 7.5 m/s [left]. Calculate the velocity of the two particles after the collision. [4 marks]