1. What is Momentum?

Momentum is a fundamental concept in physics that describes the quantity of motion of a moving body. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction, and is calculated as the product of an object's mass and velocity.

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 momentum of an object is directly proportional to both its mass and velocity. Doubling either mass or velocity will double the momentum.

3. Importance of Momentum Calculation

Details: Momentum calculations are crucial in physics for understanding collisions, conservation of momentum, and analyzing motion in various systems from subatomic particles to astronomical objects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be valid (mass > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the SI units for momentum?
A: The SI unit for 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 law of 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 of motion.

Q5: Can momentum be negative?
A: Yes, momentum can be negative since it's a vector quantity. Negative momentum indicates motion in the opposite direction of the defined positive direction.