In this experiment, students determine the relationship between the impulse of a collision and the change in momentum.

• Microsoft Word version of this lab:
  
  • ImpulseMomentumGLX_docs.zip (3.3 MB)

• Xplorer GLX (PS-2002)
• PASPORT Force Sensor (PS-2104)
• PASPORT Motion Sensor (PS-2103)
• Force Accessory Bracket (CI-6545)
• PAScar Dynamics System, 1.2m (ME-6955)
• Large Base and Support Rod (ME-9355)

1. Record the mass of the Cart.
2. Simultaneously press the Start button and release the cart 5 cm from the Force Sensor.
3. After the collision, immediately press the Stop button.
4. Press to AutoScale.
5. Record the velocity just before and just after the collision: use the Arrow buttons to move the cursor to a location on the graph just before and just after the collision.
6. Change the graph to view the Force versus Time graph: press the Check button twice, then use the Arrow and Check buttons to select "Force."
7. Press to toggle back and forth between "Scale" and "Move." Use these functions in conjunction with the Arrow buttons to view the collision peak clearly.
8. Press and select the"Area Tool."
9. Using the Arrow tool, move the cursor to one end of the collision peak.
10. Press F3 and select "Swap Cursors."
11. Move this cursor to the other end of the collision peak.
12. Record the area.
13. Repeat the previous steps two more times releasing the car at different distances from the Force Sensor.

• Calculate the change in momentum in each collision. Enter these values into the table below.

	Area of Force v. Time Units: (                 )	Change in Momentum Units: (                 )
Trial 1
Trial 2
Trial 3

1. The area of the Force v. Time graph gives the "Impulse." Enter the units of the impulse in the table above.
2. Enter the correct units for the Change in Momentum in the table above.
3. Write an equation that relates the impulse to the change in momentum.
4. Draw qualitative force diagrams for each collision.
5. In what direction is the force and acceleration? Explain.
6. Which collision produced the greatest force? Explain.
7. Which collision took the longest amount of time? Explain.
8. Why do air bags save lives? Explain using terms such as force, time, impulse, change in momentum, etc.