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Momentum Equation:
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Momentum is a fundamental concept in physics that describes the quantity of motion an object has. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. Momentum is conserved in isolated systems, making it a crucial principle in analyzing collisions and other physical interactions.
The momentum equation is given by:
Where:
Explanation: The momentum of an object is directly proportional to both its mass and velocity. Doubling either the mass or velocity will double the momentum.
Details: Momentum calculations are essential in understanding collisions, rocket propulsion, sports physics, and many other areas of mechanics. The conservation of momentum principle helps predict the outcomes of interactions between objects.
Tips: Enter the mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be valid (mass > 0). The calculator will compute the momentum in kg·m/s.
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 is the unit of momentum?
A: The SI unit of momentum is kilogram-meter per second (kg·m/s).
Q3: How is momentum conserved in collisions?
A: In an isolated system, the total momentum before a collision equals the total momentum after the collision, regardless of the type of collision (elastic or inelastic).
Q4: What's the difference between momentum and kinetic energy?
A: Momentum depends on both mass and velocity (p = mv), while kinetic energy depends on mass and the square of velocity (KE = ½mv²). Momentum is conserved in all collisions, but kinetic energy is only conserved in elastic collisions.
Q5: Can momentum be negative?
A: Yes, since momentum is a vector quantity, it can be negative when the velocity is in the negative direction of the chosen coordinate system.