1N30.50 Elastic vs Inelastic Collisions

Demonstrate momentum transfer in elastic vs inelastic collisions. If the sharp point hits the block it will wobble but not fall over. If the rubber ball hits the block it will fall over easily. The momentum transfered to the block is approximately twice as much in the elastic case.

Picture: Not Yet Available

Setup Requirements: Hang deivce from rod. Some experimenting needed to find right place to put block. Pull object hanging from string back until back end near rod.

Equations: Sum of momentum before collision = sum of momentum after.

Safety Issues: Keep cork over sharp point when not in use.