Physics
Impact Absorption
Quick fact
A modern car's front crumple zone can absorb over 50,000 joules of kinetic energy during a 30 mph crash, enough to light a 100-watt bulb for nearly 10 minutes.
Why this is interesting
Ever wonder why a car's crumple zone crumples, or why a foam mat softens your fall? The secret is in how materials can swallow energy to protect you.