Mechanics > Linear Momentum > Conservation of Linear Momentum DCS# 1N30.30

COLLISION GLIDERS



APPARATUS
air track
201A
gliders and steel spring bumpers with and without velcro
202-14-B


DESCRIPTION
The gliders can be used to show elastic and inelastic collisions between gliders of equal or unequal masses.

To give the gliders equal and opposite velocities, rest a meterstick across both gliders, use it to launch them simultaneously with the same speed and wait for one to bounce off the bumper at the end of the track.

Duct tape works better than velcro for completely inelastic collisions.

Flags and photogates can be used to measure velocities.