Some quantities are vectors, others are scalars.
Complete the table to show which quantities are vectors and which are scalars. One has been done for you.
| Quantity | Vector | Scalar |
|---|---|---|
| velocity | ||
| gravitational potential energy | ||
| momentum | ||
| distance | ✓\checkmark✓ | |
| force |
A remote-controlled cargo drone has a total mass of 12.5 kg and travels at a velocity of 24 m/s.
State the equation linking momentum, mass, and velocity.
Calculate the momentum of the drone.
In an emergency run-away test, a heavy truck enters a sand-filled deceleration lane and stops.
The momentum of the truck just before entering the lane is 144000 kg m/s.
The truck is brought to a complete stop by the sand in 1.8 s.
Calculate the average force acting on the truck during this deceleration.
Use ideas about momentum to explain how a deep sand layer reduces the average stopping force on the truck compared to hitting a rigid concrete barrier.