1.3.4

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

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

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