Momentum Equation:
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The momentum equation (p = m × v) calculates the momentum of an object, where momentum is the product of an object's mass and its velocity. Momentum is a vector quantity that describes the quantity of motion an object possesses.
The calculator uses the momentum equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that momentum is directly proportional to both mass and velocity. Doubling either mass or velocity will double the momentum.
Details: Momentum is a fundamental concept in physics, particularly in mechanics. It's conserved in closed systems and is crucial for understanding collisions, explosions, and other interactions between objects.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: What is the unit of momentum?
A: The SI unit of momentum is kilogram-meter per second (kg·m/s).
Q2: Is momentum a scalar or vector quantity?
A: Momentum is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.
Q3: What is the conservation of momentum?
A: In a closed system with no external forces, the total momentum before a collision equals the total momentum after the collision.
Q4: How does momentum relate to force?
A: Force is equal to the rate of change of momentum (F = Δp/Δt), as described by Newton's second law.
Q5: What is the difference between momentum and kinetic energy?
A: Momentum is mass times velocity (p = mv), while kinetic energy is half mass times velocity squared (KE = ½mv²). Both are conserved in elastic collisions.