Some quantities are scalars and some are vectors - AQA - GCSE Physics Combined Science - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 2

A vector quantity has both magnitude and direction, while a scalar quantity has only magnitude. For example, velocity is a vector as it includes both speed and direction, whereas distance is a scalar as it only provides the magnitude.

1. Mass of the bumper car
2. Velocity of the bumper car

Both mass and velocity contribute to the overall momentum, calculated as the product of mass and velocity.

Both bumper cars stop after the crash due to the principle of conservation of momentum. Prior to the collision, the momentum of each car is equal (in magnitude) and opposite (in direction). Upon collision, they exert equal and opposite forces, resulting in a total momentum of zero. This leads to both cars coming to a stop as they cannot continue moving without net momentum. Additionally, they experience equal and opposite accelerations, reinforcing that they will come to rest.