i know its mass*velocity/speed.
but lyk...what's so important about momentum and why do we need to know it?
also, is there an equation for impact?
2007-11-03 22:12:23 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Momentum and impact (collision) are closely tied together in the Law of Conservation of Momentum.
m1v1 + m2v2 = m1v3 + m2v4
v1 and v2 are the velocities prior to collision and v3 and v4 are the velocities after the collision.
In an elastic collision, the masses do not stick together, kinetic energy is conserved, and so is total momentum.
In an inelastic collision, the masses stick together, kinetic energy is not conserved, but total momentum is conserved.
The above equation coupled with the equation for kinetic energy: E = 1/2 mv^2 - allow us to find out a lot of information about masses, velocities and types of collisions when we're not given all of the information we need up front.
In other words, both of those equations will be pretty important to you in your physics classes.
2007-11-03 22:25:24 · answer #1 · answered by rachelesse 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If an object is moving in any reference frame, then it has momentum in that frame. It is important to note that momentum is frame dependent. That is, the same object may have a certain momentum in one frame of reference, but a different amount in another frame. For example, a moving object has momentum in a reference frame fixed to a spot on the ground, while at the same time having 0 momentum in a reference frame attached to the object's center of mass.
In conclusion, without momentum the whole world would most probably screwed.
2007-11-04 05:16:38 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
Momentum is very important if you are trying to figure out where an object is going to wind up or what you need to do to change its direction or stop it.
Sorry but I have no equation for you,there are too many variables for one equation to solve every problem.
2007-11-04 05:27:56 · answer #3 · answered by domedweller2 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Momentum is what will get you on up and over that obstacle... if you are running along and you have to go up and over, the momentum propells you along with the weight.
you know how it seems easier to go over a fence if you are running than if you just try to jump up and over it? the forward motion aids the push. or if you are on a bicycle and going along at a good clip, and you come to a small hill, and you don't have to strain to keep going up and over the crest...? that's your momentum helping move you up and over.
That's the best I can do to expain it.
2007-11-04 05:19:14 · answer #4 · answered by Booger 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋