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Motion graphs and constant-acceleration equations From a velocity graph to kinetic energy Velocity graphs reveal momentum changes Free fall through motion and energy Resultant work changes kinetic energy Velocity changes connect to momentum conservation Momentum is conserved in more collisions than kinetic energy Photoelectron energy determines its maximum speed Accelerating voltage becomes electron kinetic energy Newton’s laws and momentum3.5 Kinematics3.1.1 Linear motion3.1.2 Work and conservation of energy3.3.1 Kinetic and potential energies3.3.2 Newton’s laws of motion3.5.1 Collisions3.5.2 E.m.f. and potential difference4.2.2 The photoelectric effect4.5.2
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Momentum is conserved in more collisions than kinetic energy

OCR A AS Physics · Two ideas, one explanation

Use momentum to determine the final motion, then compare total kinetic energies to classify the collision. Objects sticking together is a particularly clear inelastic case.

Elastic collision: total Ek before = total Ek after

Follow the reasoning

  1. Find the velocities using momentum conservation.
  2. Calculate the sum of kinetic energies for all objects before and after.
  3. Identify any transfer from kinetic energy to other stores.
Specification outcomes (3)
  • 3.5.2(a) State and apply the principle of conservation of momentum.
  • 3.5.2(c) Distinguish between perfectly elastic and inelastic collisions.
  • 3.3.2(a) Define and calculate kinetic energy, Ek = ½mv², and derive it from first principles.
Open the official OCR AS specification ↗

H156 v2.0 · May 2026

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