1D Momentum are problems that generally involve collisions where only two directions are involved.  Forward/backward, east/west.  Unlike those 2D problems we don’t have to worry about angles.  There are three types of situations that we are going to look at which are elastic, inelastic, and recoil.

The first type is Elastic, where two objects collide and then bounce of each other and go their own ways.  It uses the equation m₁v₁ + m₂v₂ = m₁v₁’ + m₂v₂’  If you need some help in knowing how to use this equation, feel free to check out the video below before trying some practice questions.

The second type is Inelastic, where two objects collide and then stick together.  Hugs, tackles, and tackle hugs all fit into this category.  It uses the equation m₁v₁ + m₂v₂ = (m₁ + m₂)v’  If you need some help in knowing how to use this equation, feel free to check out the video below before trying some practice questions.

The third type is Recoil, this one isn’t a collision but rather the reverse.  It’s when two objects begin stuck together and then separate.  Launching projectiles is the main example for this.

It uses the equation (m₁+ m₂)v = m₁v₁’ + m₂v₂’

If you need some help in knowing how to use this equation, feel free to check out the video below before trying some practice questions.

Looking for some extra printable worksheets.  There’s lots available for momentum.  Elastic worksheets, inelastic worksheets, recoil worksheets, or even mixed worksheets.  And reminder that each time you load the page, you will get brand new questions.