UIUC Physics Lecture Demo: Rocket Cart (Fire Extinguisher cart)

UIUC Physics
Lecture Demonstration
Database

Demo # 129

Rocket Cart (Fire Extinguisher cart)

ID # 129

Description:

The lecturer sits on the cart. The fire extinguisher is also attached to the cart, and then the pin is removed. The cart plus the lecturer as a system are propelled in the direction opposite the escaping gas. This demonstrates conservation of linear momentum.

Picture of Rocket Cart (Fire Extinguisher cart)

Physics Concept:

Mechanics
Linear Momentum
Conservation of Linear Momentum

The demonstration takes about 2 minutes to perform.