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How To Calculate Momentum Change

Momentum Change Formula:

\[ \Delta p = m \times \Delta v \]

kg
m/s

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1. What is Momentum Change?

Momentum change (Δp) represents the change in an object's momentum, which is the product of its mass and velocity. It's a fundamental concept in physics that describes how much an object's motion has changed.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the momentum change formula:

\[ \Delta p = m \times \Delta v \]

Where:

Explanation: The momentum change is directly proportional to both the mass of the object and the change in its velocity.

3. Importance of Momentum Change Calculation

Details: Calculating momentum change is crucial in physics for understanding collisions, impulse, conservation of momentum, and analyzing forces acting on objects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity change in meters per second. Mass must be positive, while velocity change can be positive or negative depending on direction.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the unit of momentum change?
A: Momentum change is measured in kilogram-meters per second (kg·m/s).

Q2: Can momentum change be negative?
A: Yes, momentum change can be negative if the velocity change is negative, indicating a decrease in momentum or change in direction.

Q3: How is momentum change related to force?
A: According to Newton's second law, force equals the rate of change of momentum (F = Δp/Δt).

Q4: What is impulse?
A: Impulse is the product of force and time, and it equals the change in momentum (J = F × Δt = Δp).

Q5: Does momentum change depend on direction?
A: Yes, momentum is a vector quantity, so momentum change considers both magnitude and direction of velocity changes.

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