Momentum Calculator - Calculate Linear Momentum Online
Free online momentum calculator to calculate linear momentum, mass, and velocity. Perfect for physics students and collision analysis.
Momentum Calculation
Momentum Results
Enter mass and velocity to calculate momentum
About Momentum Calculator
The Momentum Calculator helps you calculate linear momentum using the fundamental physics formula.
Momentum Formula:
p = mv
Where:
- p = Momentum (kg⋅m/s)
- m = Mass (kg)
- v = Velocity (m/s)
Key Properties:
- Momentum is a vector quantity (has direction)
- Momentum is conserved in isolated systems
- Momentum depends on both mass and velocity
- Heavier objects have more momentum at same speed
Momentum Conservation:
- Total momentum before collision = Total momentum after collision
- Applies to all types of collisions
- Fundamental law of physics
- Used in collision analysis
Types of Collisions:
- Elastic: Kinetic energy is conserved
- Inelastic: Kinetic energy is not conserved
- Perfectly Inelastic: Objects stick together
Applications:
- Physics education and homework
- Collision analysis
- Sports science
- Vehicle safety design
- Particle physics
Units:
- Momentum: kg⋅m/s
- Mass: kg
- Velocity: m/s
Note: This calculator assumes classical mechanics. For relativistic effects, use the relativistic momentum formula: p = γmv.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is momentum?
Momentum is a measure of an object's motion, calculated as the product of its mass and velocity: p = mv. It's a vector quantity with both magnitude and direction.
Why is momentum important?
Momentum is conserved in isolated systems, making it crucial for understanding collisions, explosions, and other interactions. It's one of the fundamental concepts in physics.
How do I calculate momentum?
To calculate momentum, multiply the object's mass by its velocity: p = mv. Make sure to use consistent units (kg for mass, m/s for velocity).
What's the difference between momentum and kinetic energy?
Momentum (p = mv) depends on mass and velocity, while kinetic energy (KE = ½mv²) depends on mass and velocity squared. Momentum is conserved in all collisions, but kinetic energy is only conserved in elastic collisions.
Can momentum be negative?
Yes, momentum can be negative, which indicates direction. In physics, we use positive and negative signs to show opposite directions of motion.