AP Physics 1 Unit Plan-Momentum

Unit Title: Momentum

Duration: 2 weeks

Prerequisite Knowledge:

• Newton's Laws of Motion
• Kinematics (velocity, acceleration)

Unit Objectives:

By the end of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Define and calculate linear momentum.
2. Understand and apply the impulse-momentum theorem.
3. Analyze and solve problems involving the conservation of momentum in isolated systems.
4. Differentiate between elastic and inelastic collisions.
5. Apply momentum concepts to real-world scenarios, such as vehicle collisions.

Key Concepts:

6. Momentum

   • Definition: $p=mv$
   • Vector nature of momentum

7. Impulse

   • Impulse-momentum theorem: $J=\mathrm{\Delta }p=F\mathrm{\Delta }t$
   • Graphical interpretation: Area under force vs. time graph

8. Conservation of Momentum

   • Principle of conservation in isolated systems
   • Application to collision problems

9. Collisions

   • Elastic collisions: Conservation of kinetic energy
   • Inelastic collisions: Loss of kinetic energy
   • Perfectly inelastic collisions: Objects stick together

10. Center of Mass

• Definition and calculation
• Motion of the center of mass in systems

Lesson Breakdown:

Lesson 1: Introduction to Momentum

• Objective: Define momentum and understand its vector nature.
• Activities:
  • Demonstration: Momentum with rolling carts.
  • Practice problems on calculating momentum.
  • Discussion on real-world examples (e.g., sports, vehicles).
• Homework: Problems on momentum calculation.

Lesson 2: Impulse and the Impulse-Momentum Theorem

• Objective: Relate impulse to changes in momentum.
• Activities:
  • Derive $J=\mathrm{\Delta }p$ using force and time.
  • Lab: Measure impulse using force sensors and carts.
  • Graphical analysis: Force vs. time graphs.
• Homework: Problems on impulse and momentum change.

Lesson 3: Conservation of Momentum

• Objective: Apply conservation of momentum to solve problems.
• Activities:
  • Derive conservation principles from Newton's laws.
  • Group activity: Solve collision problems using conservation laws.
  • Lab: Investigate momentum conservation in collisions.
• Homework: Problems on momentum conservation.

Lesson 4: Types of Collisions

• Objective: Differentiate between elastic and inelastic collisions.
• Activities:
  • Discuss energy changes in different collisions.
  • Simulations: Explore elastic and inelastic collisions.
  • Example problems: Analyze collision scenarios.
• Homework: Problems on collision types.

Lesson 5: Real-World Applications and Center of Mass

• Objective: Apply momentum concepts to real-world scenarios and understand center of mass.
• Activities:
  • Case study: Analyze vehicle collisions using momentum.
  • Discuss center of mass and its motion in systems.
  • Project: Design a safety feature using momentum principles.
• Homework: Problems on center of mass and real-world applications.

Lesson 6: Review and Practice

• Objective: Consolidate understanding and prepare for assessment.
• Activities:
  • Group problem-solving: Mixed momentum problems.
  • AP-style multiple-choice and free-response questions.
  • Review impulse-momentum graphs and collision scenarios.