Momentum Equation:
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Momentum is a fundamental concept in physics that describes the quantity of motion an object has. It is calculated as the product of an object's mass and velocity.
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 is a conserved quantity in isolated systems, making it crucial for analyzing collisions and understanding motion in physics. It's used in engineering, sports science, and vehicle safety design.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the momentum in kg·m/s.
Q1: What is the SI unit of momentum?
A: The SI unit of 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 different from kinetic energy?
A: While both depend on mass and velocity, momentum is directly proportional to velocity (p = m×v), while kinetic energy is proportional to velocity squared (KE = ½mv²).
Q4: 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.
Q5: Can momentum be negative?
A: Yes, since momentum is a vector quantity, it can be negative when the direction of motion is opposite to the defined positive direction.