PURPOSE: To demonstrate conservation of momentum in inelastic collisions.

DESCRIPTION: Air track gliders on a frictionless track are used to illustrate inelastic collisions. Place the inelastic collision attachments on the gliders. You may set this demo up on a dynamics track with cars with velco on the ends. Masses are used to vary the results. A motion sensor with datastudio is another option.

SUGGESTIONS: Practice may be necessary.

EQUIPMENT: Air track,gliders with inelastic collision attachments

SETUP TIME: 30 min.

KEYWORDS: conservation of momentum inelastic collision