What is meant by 'momentum is conserved'? Immediately after the collision the two players move together to the right - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 1

To find the velocity of the two players immediately after the collision, we will use the principle of conservation of momentum.

1. Given Data:

   • Momentum of player A: $p_A = 585 ext{ kg m/s}$
   • Momentum of player B: $p_B = -500.5 ext{ kg m/s}$ (moving in the opposite direction)

2. Total Momentum Before Collision:

   $p_{total} = p_A + p_B = 585 - 500.5 = 84.5 ext{ kg m/s}$

3. Total Mass of Players:

   • Mass of player A: $m_A = 78 ext{ kg}$
   • Mass of player B: $m_B = 91 ext{ kg}$
   • Total Mass: $m_{total} = m_A + m_B = 78 + 91 = 169 ext{ kg}$

4. Velocity After Collision: Using the formula for velocity (v = rac{p}{m}), we can find the velocity of the two players:

   = 0.5 ext{ m/s}$$

Protective pads filled with foam serve crucial roles in reducing injuries during collisions in ice hockey:

1. Increasing Time to Stop: The foam padding increases the time taken for the player to come to a stop during a collision. This extended time reduces the rate of change of momentum, thus lessening the force experienced by the player.

2. Reducing Impact Force: By absorbing some of the energy from the collision, pads help to diminish the impact force. This design mitigates the overall force transferring to the player's body, reducing the risk of injury.

3. Diminishing Acceleration/Deceleration: A gradual deceleration can lower the risk of concussion and other serious injuries caused by sudden impacts. The protective pads effectively allow for a less abrupt change in speed and direction.