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What Is The Formula To Calculate Momentum In Physics

Momentum Formula:

\[ p = m \times v \]

kg
m/s

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1. What Is The Momentum Formula?

The momentum formula, p = m × v, is a fundamental equation in physics that calculates the quantity of motion of a moving object. Momentum is a vector quantity that depends on both the mass and velocity of an object.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the momentum formula:

\[ p = m \times v \]

Where:

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 is a conserved quantity in isolated systems, making it crucial for analyzing collisions, explosions, and other interactions between objects. It's fundamental in Newtonian mechanics and essential for understanding motion and forces.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter 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.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is momentum a vector or scalar 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 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.

Q3: How does momentum relate to force?
A: Force equals the rate of change of momentum (F = Δp/Δt), which is Newton's second law of motion.

Q4: What are the units of momentum?
A: In the SI system, momentum is measured in kilogram-meters per second (kg·m/s).

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.

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