Collision Expert

Responsibilities

As the team expert in collisions, it is your job to research the principles of conservation of momentum.  You will use this knowledge, along with data provided by the auto expert, to determine the initial velocity of the SUV prior to the collision.

1. Research the qualitative and quantitative definitions of momentum, as well as the law of conservation of momentum.
• Link to APlusPhysics Momentum Page
• Physics Classroom Momentum Page
• PhysicsLab Momentum Page
2. Using the information provided by the auto expert, calculate the total momentum of the wagon/SUV system AFTER the collision.  How does this compare to the total momentum of the system BEFORE the collision?
3. Knowing the total momentum of the system BEFORE the collision, calculate the initial velocity of the SUV (Hint: What is the initial velocity of the wagon?  What is its initial momentum?)
4. Create a one-page type-written report (including appropriate diagrams and equations) explaining your work and showing your derivations.