5.3.8

Force & Momentum Change

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Force and Momentum Change

When a force acts on an object that is moving, or able to move, a change in momentum happens. Force equals the rate of change of momentum. This can be shown by combining two equations:

Illustrative background for Acceleration and momentumIllustrative background for Acceleration and momentum ?? "content

Acceleration and momentum

  • acceleration = change in velocity ÷ time taken.
    • a = Δv ÷ t.
Illustrative background for Force and accelerationIllustrative background for Force and acceleration ?? "content

Force and acceleration

  • Force = mass × acceleration.
    • F = m x a.
Illustrative background for Force = rate of change of momentumIllustrative background for Force = rate of change of momentum ?? "content

Force = rate of change of momentum

  • Combining the 2 equations we get F = m x Δv ÷ t.
  • F = m Δv ÷ t.
  • F = Δp ÷ t.
  • Force = change in momentum ÷ change in time.
  • In other words, force is equal to the rate of change of momentum.

Jump to other topics

1Energy

2Electricity

3Particle Model of Matter

4Atoms & Radiation

5Forces

5.1Basics of Motion

5.2Forces

5.3Effects of Forces

5.4Pressure

6Waves

7Magnetism

8Astrophysics

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