Observations and Calculations of Impulse

This section delves into the quantitative aspects of impulse and momentum conservation, based on the experimental observations from the cart demonstration.

Vocabulary: The term "Impuls berechnen Beispiel" (example of calculating impulse) is demonstrated through the analysis of the cart experiment results.

Key observations include:

1. For equal masses (m₁ = m₂), the carts move with equal speeds in opposite directions.
2. When masses differ (m₁ > m₂), the cart with larger mass moves slower than the lighter one.

Highlight: The crucial finding is that the product of mass and velocity (mv) is equal for both carts but with opposite signs, introducing the concept of impulse.

The page formally defines impulse as:

p = mv

Where p is impulse, m is mass, and v is velocity.

Definition: Elastischer Stoß (elastic collision) is introduced, setting the stage for further discussion on different types of collisions.

Elastic and Inelastic Collisions

This section differentiates between elastic and inelastic collisions, explaining their characteristics and energy considerations.

Definition: An elastischer Stoß (elastic collision) is defined as a collision where the total kinetic energy of the system is conserved.

The mathematical representation of energy conservation in an elastic collision is given by:

½m₁v²₁ + ½m₂v²₂ = ½m₁u²₁ + ½m₂u²₂

Vocabulary: "Unelastischer Stoß" (inelastic collision) is introduced as a collision where objects stick together after impact.

In an inelastic collision, some kinetic energy is converted into other forms, typically heat and deformation energy. The key equation for an inelastic collision is:

m₁v₁ + m₂v₂ = (m₁ + m₂)u

Where u is the common final velocity of the combined masses.

Highlight: The conservation of momentum applies to both elastic and inelastic collisions, but energy conservation differs between the two types.