8.2 – Investigating Conservation of Momentum (Leaving Cert Physics): Flashcards

Total momentum before = after (no external forces)

$p = mv$ (mass × velocity)

Velocity (wider = faster, closer = slower)

$u = \frac{S_1}{n/50}$, $v = \frac{S_2}{n/50}$

$p = m_1u$

$p = (m_1 + m_2)v$

Inelastic (trolleys stick together)

Momentum only, NOT kinetic energy

None - they cancel out (Newton's 3rd law)

They are internal forces (equal & opposite)

Friction (air resistance & rolling friction)

Parallax errors

Trolley moves at constant speed

50 Hz

Box with cushion under runway to catch falling trolleys