Collisions
Learn the complete H1 Physics 8867 Collisions scope through clear explanations, worked methods and purposeful practice.
Learning goals
- Use impulse and momentum conservation in one-dimensional elastic and inelastic collisions.
Before you begin
Start with the first lesson if this topic is new. If you are revising, use Check your understanding to find the lesson that deserves your attention, then work from the explanation to supported and independent practice.
Be comfortable with: Projectile Motion
How the ideas connect
- Impulse and force–time area
- Momentum conservation and elastic interactions
- Kinetic-energy change in collisions
Learn in order
Lesson route
Learn the topic
- 01Impulse and force–time areaImpulse measures the accumulated effect of force over time. On a force–time graph it is the signed area, and it equals the change in momentum.35 min
- 02Momentum conservation and elastic interactionsMomentum is conserved for a closed system even when the bodies deform or stick. Elasticity requires an additional kinetic-energy or relative-speed check.35 min
- 03Kinetic-energy change in collisionsA closed system can conserve momentum while its kinetic energy changes. The difference is transferred into deformation, internal energy and sound.35 min
Check your understanding
Practice and check
What you will learn
These lessons cover the complete H1 Collisions scope in a deliberate order.
- Find impulse from rectangular, triangular or composite force–time areas.
- Use sign to connect impulse with momentum direction.
- State the principle of conservation of momentum with its closed-system condition.
- Solve one-dimensional elastic and inelastic collisions using signed velocities.
- Calculate kinetic energy before and after a collision.
- Explain why momentum conservation does not imply kinetic-energy conservation.
Syllabus and review details
Covers the complete 2027 H1 Physics 8867 requirements for Collisions; H2-only extensions are deliberately left out.
Use written working, labelled diagrams and clear physical reasoning as well as final answers. The lesson questions are designed to prepare you for both calculations and explanations.
Curriculum and content checked 2026-09-14
Frequently asked questions
Where should I start in Collisions?
Start with Impulse and force–time area. The 3 lessons build in order, and each one ends with an independent question and a clear next step.
How should I use the worked examples?
Cover the steps, attempt the question first, then compare your method line by line. Check the sign, direction, unit and size of your result.
What should I do when I finish the lessons?
Use Check your understanding, revisit any weak lesson, then complete the practice plan without looking at the worked answers.
Course and syllabus information
- Course
- GCE A-Level H1 Physics
- Edition
- GCE A-Level H1 Physics 2027