A Java Game Using Linear Momentum

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Loading instructions

This applet is designed to work in all Java-enabled browsers. Please be patient while the applet is loading, however, as disturbances to the program could cause the applet to hang. If the applet is working properly, the status bar at the extreme bottom of your browser should read "AppletRunning." Wait until the applet's background appears: now you are ready to begin.

Game instructions

The object of the game is to propell the Indian across the lake by shooting his bow and arrow. You can change the arrow's weight, the man's weight, and the speed at which he shoots the arrow in the control bars along the bottom of the applet in order to affect the movement of the canoe. When you are ready to shoot an arrow, push "GO!" and the Indian will begin.

Things to notice while playing the game

• How does the initial velocity of the arrow affect how fast the Indian's canoe moves?
• Does a heavier or a lighter arrow make the canoe move farther? How does this depend on the weight of the Indian?
• What factors affect the linear momentum of the arrow? What does conservation tell us about the relationship of the arrow's momentum and the canoe's momentum?

Bang! Boing! Pop! Interactive Physics on the World Wide Web
Created for Thinkquest 96 by Josh Levine, Paulina Kuo, and Doug Brown