Demonstration of conservation of momentum using Lato Lato 2.0

Abstract

In this work, the second generation of Lato Lato (Lato Lato 2.0) has been used to demonstrate the concept of conservation of momentum. The Lato Lato 2.0 toys are two identical solid balls that are attached to the stick handle via a stick. The balls are meant to rotate in response to the movements of the stick handle. With the assistance of these toys, the concepts of action-reaction forces, two objects colliding, and conservation of momentum are easily understood. As an alternative to commonly used apparatus such as the Newton Cradle, these inexpensive toys can undoubtedly elucidate the concepts of conservation of momentum. Therefore, the Lato Lato 2.0 can be used for pedagogical purposes in learning physics. Indeed, physics is more enjoyable to learn and easier to understand through demonstrations.

The dynamics of Lato Lato ball collisions

“…It is different from the collision that happens in Newton's cradle when a moving hanging ball hits another unmoving hanging [5][6][7] or in billiard ball games when one ball with a specific velocity hits another unmoving ball on the billiard board [8][9][10]. Therefore, this work will enrich the discussion regarding the collision of two objects, complementing the work reported by other authors [3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14].…”

“…Numerous physics phenomena can be observed with these toys. Lato can therefore be used as a learning tool for physics [2][3][4]. Most recently, Lato Lato has been used to demonstrate the law of conservation of momentum [3] and estimate the gravitational acceleration of the Earth [2].…”

“…Lato can therefore be used as a learning tool for physics [2][3][4]. Most recently, Lato Lato has been used to demonstrate the law of conservation of momentum [3] and estimate the gravitational acceleration of the Earth [2]. Even though Lato Lato has been the subject of numerous articles, playing Lato Lato can nevertheless disclose a plethora of additional information.…”

Playing lato–lato is difficult and this is why

“…We find the time required by the string to become taut again. Note that the pendulum will undergo parabolic motion during this time range, and the following equation must be fulfilled for it to become taut again 6 ¢ + ¢ = ( ) y x l , 8…”

“…Previously some reports and articles have been written revolving around lato-lato. However, most seem to focus on how educators can implement lato-lato in teaching physics [4][5][6]. As we all know, the physical essence of the toy lato-lato lies in the law of momentum conservation; the collisions that occur between the plastic spheres are such that p i = p f [7,8].…”