Quick answer: Linear momentum is the product of mass and velocity, p = mv, a vector in kg m/s. This AP Physics 1 test on impulse momentum theorem has 8 questions worth 20 marks, to do in 45 minutes: definitions, bullet and car and goalkeeper’s catch. The mark scheme is on a separate page; free printable PDF.
This test covers momentum, impulse, force–time graphs and the link between contact time and force. Show all working, give units and state the direction of vectors. A calculator is allowed.
Level: AP Physics 1 (algebra-based) · Curriculum: AP P1 Unit 4
Question 1 Definitions (2 marks)
- State what is meant by the impulse of a force. (1 mark)
- State the relationship between impulse and momentum. (1 mark)
Question 2 Bullet and car (2 marks)
A 0.0040 kg bullet travels at 400 m/s. A 1500 kg car creeps forward at 1.0 m/s.- Calculate the momentum of each. (1 mark)
- Calculate how many times larger the car’s momentum is. (1 mark)
Question 3 Goalkeeper’s catch (3 marks)
A goalkeeper catches a 0.43 kg football travelling at 20 m/s and stops it in 0.040 s.- Calculate the change in momentum of the ball. (1 mark)
- State the impulse on the ball. (1 mark)
- Calculate the average force on the ball. (1 mark)
Question 4 Skater and a graph (3 marks)
The graph shows the net force on a 70 kg skater who starts at rest.- Calculate the impulse during the five seconds. (2 marks)
- Calculate the skater’s final speed. (1 mark)
Question 5 Airbags (3 marks)
Explain, using the impulse–momentum theorem, why an airbag reduces the force on a driver in a crash. (3 marks)Question 6 Rebounding ball (3 marks)
A 0.25 kg ball hits a wall at 8.0 m/s and rebounds at 6.0 m/s. The contact lasts 0.020 s.- Calculate the change in momentum of the ball, taking the initial direction as positive. (2 marks)
- Calculate the average force on the ball. (1 mark)
Question 7 Car acceleration (2 marks)
A 1500 kg car speeds up from 8.0 m/s to 20 m/s in 5.0 s.- Calculate the change in momentum. (1 mark)
- Calculate the average net force. (1 mark)
Question 8 Sticking or bouncing (2 marks)
A clay ball and a rubber ball of equal mass strike a wall at the same speed. The clay sticks and the rubber bounces back. Explain which ball receives the larger impulse. (2 marks)
