Two identical carts on an air track collide elastically or inelastically. Additional masses for the carts are also available.

Make sure the track is level and that the springs are not too stretched; angle can be adjusted with knobs and screws on feet. The tracks have two holes for inserting air, one of which has to be plugged.

To set up, place the carts on the track and connect the bumpers via the banana jack holes. For elastic collisions use the connection with the fork with a rubber band stretched between the teeth. For an explosion, use the connection with the screws and a magnet in addition with the rubber band forks. Connect the carts via the magnet and tap to separate them; the bands will cause them to move in opposite directions. F1

set-up details

PIRA DCS 1N30.30