Collisions in One Dimension: Linear Momentum &
Collisions
Equal & Unequal Mass Air Track
PIRA Class: 1N30.33
Purpose
Observe equal & unequal mass collisions between carts on
an air track.
Description
A small cart hits a big one elastically.
Collide carts on an air track & note the changes in
velocities of the respective carts.
1. Set up track with air supply.
2. Level track & wipe off any dust.
3. Place carts on track with weights distributed evenly on
carts' sides.
4. Give the carts a gentle push so as to collide them at the
center of the track.
5. Transfer some of the masses from one cart to the other for
unequal mass collisions.
NOTE: Use "velcro ends" on carts for inelastic
collisions
VARIATIONS:
A. Launch the larger cart and smaller cart so that after the
collision both carts hit the ends simultaneously. The carts will again collide at the
original collision position.
B. Vary initial velocities of carts by colliding a still cart
with a moving cart.
C. Vary initial velocities of carts by initially sending the
carts down the track in the same direction.
D. Simulate the Doubleball drop (Basketball & tennis ball
drop)
Equipment
Air Track Carts & Accessories, Air Supply