Momentum Equation:
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The momentum equation (p = m × v) calculates the quantity of motion of a moving object, where p represents momentum, m is mass, and v is velocity. It's a fundamental concept in physics that describes how difficult it is to stop a moving object.
The calculator uses the momentum equation:
Where:
Explanation: Momentum is directly proportional to both mass and velocity. Doubling either mass or velocity will double the momentum.
Details: Momentum calculations are essential in physics for understanding collisions, conservation of momentum, rocket propulsion, and analyzing motion in various mechanical systems.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
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 vector or scalar quantity?
A: Momentum is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.
Q3: How is momentum conserved in collisions?
A: In a closed system, the total momentum before a collision equals the total momentum after the collision (law of conservation of momentum).
Q4: What's the difference between momentum and kinetic energy?
A: Momentum depends on mass and velocity (p = m×v), while kinetic energy depends on mass and velocity squared (KE = ½mv²). Both are conserved in elastic collisions.
Q5: Can momentum be negative?
A: Yes, momentum can be negative when the velocity vector points in the negative direction of the chosen coordinate system.