Momentum
Physics: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 5.3.7
Momentum
The momentum of an object is its mass multiplied by its velocity (p = mv).
Change in momentum
- Change in momentum = force x time
- Δp = F x t
Conservation of momentum
- The law of conservation of momentum says that momentum cannot be created or destroyed.
- So, if two objects collide, the sum of momentum before collision = sum of momentum after the collision.
Change in momentum = mv - mu
- Change in momentum = mv - mu, where m is mass, u is the initial velocity of an object and v is the final velocity of an object.
Test yourself on Momentum
What are the units of momentum?
Using ideas about momentum, describe how a rocket is launched.