1. What is Linear Momentum?

Linear momentum is a fundamental concept in physics that describes the quantity of motion of a moving body. It is a vector quantity equal to the product of an object's mass and velocity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the linear momentum formula:

Where:

• \( p \) — Linear momentum (kg·m/s)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kg)
• \( v \) — Velocity of the object (m/s)

Explanation: Momentum depends on both the mass and velocity of an object. A heavy object moving slowly can have the same momentum as a light object moving quickly.

3. Importance of Momentum Calculation

Details: Momentum is conserved in isolated systems according to the law of conservation of momentum. It is crucial for analyzing collisions, explosions, and various physical interactions in mechanics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and velocity in meters per second. Both values must be valid (mass > 0). The result will be displayed in kg·m/s.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between momentum and velocity?
A: Velocity describes how fast an object is moving and in what direction, while momentum describes the quantity of motion and depends on both mass and velocity.

Q2: Is momentum a scalar or vector 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.

Q3: What is the conservation of momentum?
A: In an isolated system (no external forces), the total momentum before a collision equals the total momentum after the collision.

Q4: How does momentum relate to force?
A: Force is equal to the rate of change of momentum (Newton's second law: F = dp/dt).

Q5: What are practical applications of momentum?
A: Used in car safety design (crumple zones), sports analysis, rocket propulsion, and particle physics.