Total Momentum Calculator
Calculate the total momentum of a system by entering mass and velocity values for each object.
Understanding Total Momentum
Total momentum is the combined momentum of all objects in a system. It’s calculated by summing the product of each object’s mass and velocity:
p = m₁v₁ + m₂v₂ + … + mₙvₙ
Where:
- p = total momentum (kg·m/s)
- m = mass of each object (kg)
- v = velocity of each object (m/s)
In a closed system with no external forces, the total momentum before and after a collision remains constant (conservation of momentum).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is momentum?
Momentum is a measurement involving the motion of an object in motion and is calculated by multiplying the mass of the object by its velocity.
What are the units for momentum?
The SI unit for momentum is kilogram-meter per second (kg·m/s).
Is momentum a vector or scalar quantity?
Momentum is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.
What is the law of conservation of momentum?
The law states that in a closed system with no external forces, the total momentum before an interaction equals the total momentum after the interaction.