Momentum and Collisions

What You'll Learn

Momentum is mass times velocity. A heavy truck moving slowly can have the same momentum as a light car moving fast. Momentum is conserved in collisions.

Key Words

kinetic
potential
work

Materials Needed

rubber bands
blocks
spring scale
stopwatch
pencils
toy cars

Safety First

Tie back long hair before starting the experiment.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read and learn: Momentum is mass times velocity. A heavy truck moving slowly can have the same momentum as a light car moving fast. Momentum is conserved in collisions.

Step 2 — Do

Compare your results with a partner.

Step 3 — Observe

Watch carefully for any changes and note the time.

Step 4 — Record

Create a data table to organize your measurements.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What do magnets have?