1. What is the Momentum Equation?

The momentum equation (p = m × v) is a fundamental physics formula that calculates the momentum of an object. Momentum is a vector quantity that depends on both the mass and velocity of an object, representing the quantity of motion it possesses.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the momentum equation:

Where:

• \( p \) — Momentum (kg·m/s)
• \( m \) — Mass (kg)
• \( v \) — Velocity (m/s)

Explanation: The equation shows that momentum is directly proportional to both mass and velocity. Doubling either mass or velocity will double the momentum.

3. Importance of Momentum Calculation

Details: Momentum is a conserved quantity in physics, making it crucial for analyzing collisions and other interactions. It's fundamental in mechanics, engineering, and understanding motion in various physical systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the momentum in kg·m/s.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is momentum a scalar or vector quantity?
A: Momentum is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. The direction of momentum is the same as the direction of velocity.

Q2: What are the units of momentum?
A: In the SI system, momentum is measured in kilogram-meters per second (kg·m/s).

Q3: How is momentum conserved in collisions?
A: In a closed system with no external forces, the total momentum before a collision equals the total momentum after the collision.

Q4: What's the difference between momentum and kinetic energy?
A: Momentum depends linearly on velocity (p = mv), while kinetic energy depends on velocity squared (KE = ½mv²). Both are conserved in elastic collisions, but only momentum is conserved in inelastic collisions.

Q5: Can momentum be negative?
A: Yes, since momentum is a vector quantity, it can be negative when the direction of motion is opposite to the defined positive direction.