Physics Exam #2 Study Guide: Momentum and Collisions

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions from the Momentum and Collisions physics study guide.

Momentum

The quantity of motion an object has, which depends on mass and velocity.

Mass

The amount of matter in an object, measured in kilograms ($kg$).

Velocity

The speed of an object in a specific direction, measured in meters per second ($m/s$).

Collision

An event in which two objects exert forces on each other for a short time.

System

The group of objects being studied.

Conservation of Momentum

In a closed system, the total momentum before a collision equals the total momentum after the collision.

Elastic Collision

A collision in which the objects bounce apart, and both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved.

Inelastic Collision

A collision in which momentum is conserved, but kinetic energy is not conserved, and some energy may become heat, sound, or deformation.

Perfectly Inelastic Collision

A collision in which the objects stick together after the collision and share one final velocity.

Stationary

Not moving, meaning its velocity is $0\,m/s$ and its momentum is $0\,kg\,m/s$.

Rebound

To bounce back after a collision.