Momentum: Impulse
Determine the relationship between the impulse and change in momentum.
Students monitoring force and velocity are able to compare the change of velocity of the cart with the force applied over the time of the collision.
Lab Summary
Students will use a Force Sensor and Motion Sensor to investigate the relationship between the change in momentum and the impulse during a collision.
Theory
Impulse is defined as the product of a force and the time that force acts.
Downloads
- Computer-based lab (PDF, 748 KB) (748 KB, .pdf)
(student versions)
- Xplorer GLX-based lab (PDF, 368 KB) (366 KB, .pdf)
(student versions)
Method
Use a Motion Sensor to measure the motion of a cart during a collision and use a Force Sensor to measure the force during the collision. Compare the change in momentum of the cart to the impulse. After the cart collides with the force sensor, a calculation of the area under the curve on the graph of force vs time yields the impulse of that collision.
Here's What You Need
U.S. Educator prices shown.
Required for computer-based lab: (See lab download for Xplorer GLX-based lab requirements, which may differ)
Probeware
PASPORT Motion Sensor (PS-2103A) - $80
Accurately measures position, velocity, and acceleration of a target. For use with PASPORT Interfaces.
PASPORT Force Sensor (PS-2104) - $110
Designed to measure both pulling and pushing forces. Uses range from collisions to tug-of-war. For use with PASPORT Interfaces.
Xplorer GLX (PS-2002) - $349
The Xplorer GLX is a data collection, graphing, and analysis tool designed for science students and educators.
Other Products
1.2 m PAScar Dynamics System (ME-6955) - $259
Equip your lab with carts and a high-quality 1.2 m aluminum track.
Force Accessory Bracket (CI-6545) - $79
Allows mounting of force sensors directly to a dynamics track.
Ohaus Triple-Beam Balance (without Tare) (SE-8723) - $147
This Ohaus triple-beam mechanical balance (without tare) is accurate and easy to use. This balance has been a standard weighing instrument in student laboratories for decades.
Other Materials
- Heavy object, such as a book
Lab Manual
The computer-based activity is included in Explorations in Physics (PS-2810). The Xplorer GLX-based lab is included in Physics with the Xplorer GLX (PS-2826). Both manuals are complete with Teacher Information pages, student instructions and handouts, and sample data.
For your convenience, we offer bundles which provide the probeware for the
activities in the manual. For more, please see:
Computer-based Physics Lab
Manual and Bundles
Xplorer GLX-based Physics Lab Manual and Bundles
