1Physics
Name____________________________Period____
2D Elastic Collision Simulation
Purpose: You will determine if a simulated 2-dimensional collision demonstrates the
conservation of momentum.
Materials: Simulated collision record, ruler, protractor
Procedure:
1. Record given quantities in the table below; masses, initial velocities, and reference
angles (). Reference angles should be measured because the given angles are
listed in mathematical axes.
2. Calculate x and y components for the momentum of each mass (and the system)
before the collision and record.
3. Use the “spark” indicators (the small squares on each path) to determine the
velocities of the masses after the collision. The time interval between the spark
indicators is consistent. Measure the distance between 5 spark indicators before,
then measure the distance between 5 spark indicators after the collision; use a ratio
to determine the vI.
4. Measure the reference angles (I) for each velocity after the collision.
5 . Calculate x and y components for the momentum of each mass (and the system)
after the collision and record.
6. Calculate and record the system momentum before and after the collision and record
in standard vector notation.
7. Compare the momentum before and the momentum after the collision.
1Physics
Name____________________________Period____
2D Elastic Collision Simulation
Data/Calculations:
VERSION__________
m1
m2
v1 I
v1
v2 I
v2
 1I
1
 2I
2
X
Y
X
Y
P1
P2
P (system)
P1 I
P2 I
PI (system)
P = ________________________________________
PI = ________________________________________
Does the collision demonstrate conservation of momentum? Justify your answer.