Momentum and Collisions (Part 2)

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

work
simple machine
lever

Materials Needed

blocks
spring scale
stopwatch
pencils

Safety First

Keep small objects away from young children.
Work in a well-ventilated area when using vinegar or other strong-smelling substances.
Dispose of materials properly after the experiment.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read about Forces and Motion and write down three key facts.

Step 2 — Do

Test Newton's Third Law: blow up a balloon, attach it to a straw on a string, and release. Measure how far it travels with different amounts of air.

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?