Impulse momentum quiz for A Level physics: 10 questions with answers

Quick answer: Momentum is the product of mass and velocity, p = m v, measured in kg m/s. This Physics 11-12 quiz checks impulse momentum with 10 multiple-choice questions and instant feedback; every answer comes with a short explanation.

Ten multiple-choice questions on momentum, impulse, force as the rate of change of momentum and collisions. Choose the best option, then read the explanation to see which mistake each wrong option represents.

Level: Physics grades 11-12 (A Level · IB · Class 11-12) · Curriculum: IB A.2

What is the SI unit of momentum written in base units?

A ball of mass 0.50 kg arrives at 4.0 m/s and rebounds at 2.0 m/s in the opposite direction. What is the size of its change in momentum?

What does the area under a force-time graph represent?

Why does a longer stopping time reduce the force on a passenger?

In a perfectly inelastic collision between two objects, which quantity is NOT conserved?

A 2.0 kg trolley at 3.0 m/s sticks to a stationary 4.0 kg trolley. What is their common speed?

A gun fires a bullet forward. Why does the gun recoil backwards?

Which statement about an elastic collision is correct?

Two cars collide at a junction, one moving east and one north. How is momentum conserved?

A hose directs water at a wall at 10 m/s, 2.0 kg of water per second, and the water stops. What is the average force on the wall?

Definition of momentum? — Mass times velocity, p = m v

Unit of impulse? — The newton second, N s = kg m/s

Impulse equals what? — Change in momentum, F Δt = Δp

Newton's second law in momentum form? — F = Δp/Δt

Area under a force-time graph? — Impulse

Condition for conservation of momentum? — No external resultant force

Elastic collision means what? — Kinetic energy is conserved

Perfectly inelastic collision means what? — Objects stick; maximum energy lost

Elastic head-on speed rule? — Approach speed equals separation speed

Momentum in 2D collisions? — Conserved separately along x and y