Lesson 4: Momentum and Collisions

How does momentum effect an object's motion?
Which measures of an object affect it's momentum?
How does an object's motion change in a collision?
How is momentum and energy conserved during the collision of two objects?

Momentum
Collisions
Acceleration
Velocity
Law of Conservation of Energy

HS-PS2-2. Use mathematical representations to support the claim that the total momentum of a system of objects is conserved when there is no net force on the system.

Systems and System Models
Cause and Effect

Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

Common Core State Standards Connections:

Mathematics -
MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. (HS-PS2-2)
MP.4 Model with mathematics. (HS-PS2-2)
HSN.Q.A.1 Use units as a way to understand problems and to guide the solution of multi-step problems; choose and interpret units consistently in formulas; choose and interpret the scale and the origin in graphs and data displays. (HS-PS2-2)
HSN.Q.A.2 Define appropriate quantities for the purpose of descriptive modeling. (HS-PS2-2)
HSN.Q.A.3 Choose a level of accuracy appropriate to limitations on measurement when reporting quantities. (HS-PS2-2)
HSA.CED.A.1 Create equations and inequalities in one variable and use them to solve problems. (HS-PS2-2)
HSA.CED.A.2 Create equations in two or more variables to represent relationships between quantities; graph equations on coordinate axes with labels and scales. (HS-PS2-2)
HSA.CED.A.4 Rearrange formulas to highlight a quantity of interest, using the same reasoning as in solving equations. (HS-PS2-2)

Students have previously learned about the patterns in motion of a single object, including an object with multiple forces acting upon it. Students will expand their understanding of motion concepts by exploring how two objects interact when they collide.

Students may have a hard time with conceptual similarities and differences between acceleration and momentum. Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity over time, while momentum is an object's mass in motion, calculated as mass times velocity. Differences in meaning between these vocabulary words should be explicitly addressed.

Tiered Assignments, Scaffolded Instruction, Graphic Organizers, Use of simulators and visual models, Provided formulas, Calculator use, Access to technology

While there is no quiz or checkpoint for this lesson, students will demonstrate understanding of momentum and collision concepts in their rocket journals during journal checks.

Momentum Practice

Collisions Practice

Unit Journals