AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based 4.2 Change in Momentum and Impulse Questions

Connect force and interaction time to vector momentum change, using the impulse–momentum theorem and force, momentum or motion graphs.

Syllabus
Effective Fall 2024
Course
AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based

Exam points

  • calculate vector impulse or momentum change from mass and initial and final velocities
  • use signed force-time area to determine final momentum, speed or direction
  • solve average net force or interaction time from a known momentum change
  • construct momentum-time graphs from force or find net force from their slope
  • infer momentum change from velocity-time, position-time or acceleration-time data

Question 1

[Maximum number: 3]

(12 points, suggested time 25 minutes)
A student hangs a spring of unknown spring constant k vertically by attaching one end to a stand, as shown in Figure 1. The other end of the spring has a small loop from which small cylinders can be hung. In addition to the spring, the student has access only to a variety of cylinders of unknown masses, a stopwatch, and a digital scale.

Question (a)

(a)

Using the data in the force-time graph, estimate the change in momentum of the cart from t=0.5 st=0.5 \mathrm{~s} to t=2.5 st=2.5 \mathrm{~s}. Briefly explain how you arrived at your estimation.

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Question (b)

(b)

Do the data from the velocity-time graph confirm your estimation from part (c)(ii) ? Briefly explain.

Figure 1

Figure 1

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