1.3.2

Momentum

Test yourself

Momentum

The momentum of an object is its mass multiplied by its velocity.

Illustrative background for Equation for momentumIllustrative background for Equation for momentum ?? "content

Equation for momentum

  • The equation for calculating momentum is:
    • p=mvp = mv
    • Momentum = mass × velocity
Illustrative background for UnitsIllustrative background for Units ?? "content

Units

  • Momentum is measured in kg m/s.
  • Velocity is measured in m/s.
  • Mass is measured in kg.
Illustrative background for Conservation of momentumIllustrative background for Conservation of momentum ?? "content

Conservation of momentum

  • The law of conservation of momentum says that momentum cannot be created or destroyed.
  • If two objects collide, the sum of momentum before the collision is equal to the sum of momentum after the collision.
Illustrative background for Equation for the conservation of momentumIllustrative background for Equation for the conservation of momentum ?? "content

Equation for the conservation of momentum

  • The equation for the conservation of momentum is:
    • m1u1+m2u2=m1v1+m2v2m_1u_1 + m_2u_2 = m_1v_1 + m_2v_2
    • (Mass 1 × initial velocity 1) + (mass 2 × initial velocity 2) = (mass 1 × final velocity 1) + (mass 2 × final velocity 2)
  • In other words, the sum of the momentums of the two objects that are colliding will remain the same after they have collided.

Jump to other topics

1Forces & Motion

1.1Basics of Motion

1.2Forces

1.3Effects of Forces

1.4Stopping Distance

1.5Forces & Elasticity

2Electricity

3Waves

4Energy Resources & Energy Transfers

5Solids, Liquids & Gases

6Magnetism & Electromagnetism

7Radioactivity & Particles

8Astrophysics

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium