CONSTRUCTION OF AN IMPROVISED DEVICE TO DEMONSTRATE THE PRINCIPLES OF CONSERVATION OF LINEAR MOMENTUM (INELASTIC COLLISION)

Abstract

The focus of this study is to experimentally determine if momentum and kinetic energy are conserved throughout an entire linear inelastic collision. To achieve this, a model was constructed using locally sourced materials in the environment. The momentum of an object moving in a straight line is given by
P = mdv. The constructed model was used in carrying out explicit practical. The result obtained from calculation using relevant formula, and graphical relationship between mass and the reciprocal of velocity, confirmed that with this model kinetic
energy is not conserved. This agrees with the principle of conservation of momentum (inelastic collision). This
constructed model wouldserve as an illustrative tool for further enhancing the know/edge of students in this topic.