SUMMATIVE: Impulse-Momentum Theorem LAB

In class, set up equipment as shown by Mr. Fenbert, to derive a very important equation linking Force (N) to change in momentum, (kgm/s). 

Place a force sensor on top of a cart. Put a motion sensor down, aligned with the direction of the cart. Start data collection. Push the cart away from the motion sensor. Using a rubber band, redirect the cart. Stop data collection. 

Determine the cart's change in momentum. Weigh the cart/motion sensor system in kg. Determine the change in velocity (vf-vi). Multiple the two results to find your change in momentum. 

Analyze your force graph. Is there anything on the force graph that appears to be equal to your change in momentum calculated previously?

HINT: What parts of a graph have significance? Think back to our position-velocity-acceleration unit, and the various ways to gain information from graphs. 

HINT: Add/insert/replace variables until the units of both sides of this equation are true: Force (N) = Impulse (kgm/s)

HINT: Manipulate or replace variables in Newton's II Law equation until they show a relationship between Force and impulse. 
F = ma. Note, that impulse and momentum refer to velocity, not acceleration. 

When you believe you have found something on your force graph that is equal to change in momentum, Fenbert will confirm. Check to make sure the units are equivalent! Double check with Fenbert what graph will be your primary deliverable for this lab. 

Submit a lab report, using the format used previously in Newton's II law lab. Ensure you are following expectations for data collection, graph and math modeling, and analysis. 

Title - Name of study/lab, with your name
Abstract - What is the point of this lab? What variables are we investigating? What is a one sentence description of the results?
Methods - What is the set up? What procedure did you use to collect data and measure variables? Describe tools, equipment and process. 
Results (graph!!) - Include your beautiful, properly labeled and scaled graphs. Impulse (Ns) vs change in momentum (kgm/s). These should be included based on our first unit about modeling practices. Check your notes or look in the modeling and science practice module. 
Analysis - What is the relationship between impulse and change in momentum? How do we represent that with a math model? What does the slope represent in the graph? What are its units? What is the vertical intercept, and if significant, what does it represent? (5% rule can be used to discard a small but non-zero intercept value). Complete a percent-error calculation for slope/coefficient. % error = (experimental value - theoretical value)/theoretical value x 100.
Conclusion - Based on your math models, what is the general form equation linking impulse and change in momentum? AKA Does your data support the impulse-momentum theorem Fnet*t = delta mv