Law of Conservation of Momentum Calculator

Conservation of Momentum Equation:

\[ m_1 v_1 + m_2 v_2 = m_1 v_{1f} + m_2 v_{2f} \]

Mass 1 (m1):

Initial Velocity 1 (v1):

m/s

Mass 2 (m2):

Initial Velocity 2 (v2):

m/s

Final Velocity 1 (v1f):

m/s

Final Velocity 2 (v2f):

m/s

Calculation Result:

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1. What is the Law of Conservation of Momentum?

The Law of Conservation of Momentum states that the total momentum of a closed system remains constant unless acted upon by an external force. For two objects colliding, the sum of their momenta before collision equals the sum after collision.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conservation of momentum equation:

\[ m_1 v_1 + m_2 v_2 = m_1 v_{1f} + m_2 v_{2f} \]

Where:

\( m_1 \) — Mass of object 1 (kg)
\( v_1 \) — Initial velocity of object 1 (m/s)
\( m_2 \) — Mass of object 2 (kg)
\( v_2 \) — Initial velocity of object 2 (m/s)
\( v_{1f} \) — Final velocity of object 1 (m/s)
\( v_{2f} \) — Final velocity of object 2 (m/s)

Explanation: The equation balances the total momentum before and after a collision or interaction between two objects.

3. Importance of Momentum Conservation

Details: This principle is fundamental in physics, used to analyze collisions, explosions, and other interactions. It's essential for understanding motion in isolated systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter any five known values (masses in kg, velocities in m/s) to calculate the unknown sixth value. Leave one field blank to calculate it.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What types of collisions does this apply to?
A: This applies to both elastic (kinetic energy conserved) and inelastic (kinetic energy not conserved) collisions.

Q2: What if the objects stick together after collision?
A: For perfectly inelastic collisions, v1f = v2f. Set these equal in the equation.

Q3: Does this work in 2D or 3D collisions?
A: This calculator handles 1D collisions. For 2D/3D, momentum conservation must be applied separately in each dimension.

Q4: What units should I use?
A: Use kilograms (kg) for mass and meters per second (m/s) for velocity for consistent results.

Q5: What if I get a negative velocity?
A: Negative velocity indicates motion in the opposite direction of your chosen positive direction.