description Conservation of momentum Overview
Conservation of momentum is a fundamental principle in physics describing how momentum—mass in motion—is retained within a closed system. It states that the total momentum before an event equals the total momentum after it, irrespective of internal forces involved. This concept is crucial for understanding collisions and interactions between objects, particularly in mechanics and engineering. It’s most relevant to scientists, engineers, and students studying these areas of physics.
help Conservation of momentum FAQ
What does conservation of momentum mean in a collision?
It means the total vector momentum before a collision equals the total vector momentum after the collision if no external net force acts. In one dimension, that is often written as m1v1 + m2v2 before equals m1v1 + m2v2 after.
Does momentum stay conserved in an inelastic collision?
Yes, momentum is conserved in both elastic and inelastic collisions when the system is isolated. Kinetic energy is the quantity that is not conserved in a perfectly inelastic collision.
Why do rockets work if momentum is conserved?
A rocket throws exhaust mass backward at high speed, and the rocket gains forward momentum. The total momentum of rocket plus exhaust remains conserved, even in space where there is no air to push against.
What unit is momentum measured in?
Momentum is mass times velocity, so the SI unit is kilogram meter per second. A 2 kg cart moving at 3 m/s has momentum of 6 kg m/s in its direction of motion.
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