Physics & Engineering
INTERACTIVE LABORATORY / 04

Momentum Collision Simulator

Test conservation of momentum across elastic and inelastic collisions.

YOUR PHYSICS NOTEBOOK0 / 12missions completed on this device
Collision rail
Drag to rotate · touch to explore
Cart A velocity3.00 m/s
Cart B velocity0.00 m/s
Total momentum6.00 kg·m/s
Ready to run0.00 / 2.33 s
Momentum conserved · kinetic energy can change

Before: 9.00 J · After impact: 6.25 J · Converted to deformation/heat: 2.75 J.

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Free online momentum collision simulator

Momentum Collision Simulator: experiment guide

This browser-based 3d simulation helps you test conservation of momentum across elastic and inelastic collisions. Designed for Grades 6–12, it turns an abstract idea into a model you can control, measure, reset, and test without signing up.

What you can investigate

Explore Momentum, impulse, elasticity, collisions by changing the available controls and comparing the model’s visual and numerical evidence. Try one variable at a time, then combine changes to test a stronger explanation.

Momentumimpulseelasticitycollisions

How to use this simulation

  1. 1Read the mission and make a prediction before moving a control.
  2. 2Change one variable so its effect is easier to identify.
  3. 3Run the model and record a value, pattern, or visible change.
  4. 4Reset, test a different setup, and explain the result from evidence.

For students, teachers, and independent study

A typical investigation takes 6–12 min. Use it as a lesson demonstration, a guided inquiry activity, a homework experiment, or a quick review. The simulation runs in a modern web browser and does not require an account.

Level
Intermediate
Time
6–12 min
Format
3D simulation

Common questions

What does the Momentum Collision Simulator teach?

Test conservation of momentum across elastic and inelastic collisions. The main ideas are Momentum, impulse, elasticity, collisions.

Is the Momentum Collision Simulator free to use?

Yes. You can run the simulation online for free without creating an account.

How long does the activity take?

Most learners can complete one investigation in 6–12 min. You can repeat it to compare more variables or improve your explanation.