Collisions in One Dimension: Linear Momentum & Collisions
Double Ball Drop
PIRA Class: 1N30.60

Purpose
Observe the transfer of momentum as a large mass and a smaller mass collide.

Description
A basketball is dropped simultaneously with a tennis ball directly above it. (Separation distance ~ 3-6 cm.)After bouncing off the floor, the basketball rebounds upward, collides with (and transfers momentum to) the tennis ball. Maximum height ~9 times higher than initial dropping height. (Magnitude of tennis ball's velocity 3 times greater)
NOTE: Tennis ball must be directly above the basketball's vertical axis to prevent the ball from flying into the crowd. However if the room has low ceilings, you will probably want the balls to be a bit off axis so that the tennis ball flies off over the students' heads.

Equipment
Basketball & Tennis ball