1. What Is The Formula For Calculating Momentum?

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 its velocity.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the momentum formula:

Where:

• \( p \) — Momentum (kg·m/s)
• \( m \) — Mass (kg)
• \( v \) — Velocity (m/s)

Explanation: Momentum is a vector quantity that depends on both the mass of the object and its velocity. The direction of momentum is the same as the direction of velocity.

3. Importance Of Momentum Calculation

Details: Momentum is crucial in understanding collisions, conservation laws, and motion dynamics. It's used extensively in mechanics, engineering, and various physics applications.

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: 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 = mv), 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 is in the negative direction of the chosen coordinate system.