1. What Is Total Momentum?

Total momentum is the sum of the momentum of all objects in a system. Momentum is a vector quantity defined as the product of an object's mass and velocity, representing the quantity of motion it possesses.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the momentum equation:

Where:

• \( P \) — Total momentum (kg·m/s)
• \( m_1 \) — Mass of first object (kg)
• \( v_1 \) — Velocity of first object (m/s)
• \( m_2 \) — Mass of second object (kg)
• \( v_2 \) — Velocity of second object (m/s)

Explanation: The total momentum of a system is calculated by summing the momentum (mass × velocity) of each individual object in the system.

3. Importance Of Momentum Calculation

Details: Momentum calculation is fundamental in physics, particularly in conservation of momentum principles. It's essential for analyzing collisions, explosions, and other interactions between objects in isolated systems.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter mass values in kilograms and velocity values in meters per second. All values must be valid (mass ≥ 0). Velocity can be positive or negative depending on direction.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is momentum a scalar or vector quantity?
A: Momentum is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. The sign of velocity indicates direction.

Q2: What is the principle of conservation of momentum?
A: In an isolated system (no external forces), the total momentum before a collision equals the total momentum after the collision.

Q3: How does momentum differ from kinetic energy?
A: Momentum depends on both mass and velocity, while kinetic energy depends on mass and the square of velocity. Momentum is conserved in all collisions, but kinetic energy is only conserved in elastic collisions.

Q4: Can momentum be negative?
A: Yes, momentum can be negative when velocity is negative, indicating direction opposite to the chosen positive direction.

Q5: What are the units of momentum?
A: The SI unit for momentum is kilogram-meter per second (kg·m/s).