Momentum and Collision

Vocabulary flashcards covering the fundamental concepts of linear momentum, its relation to Newton's laws, and the principles of conservation within isolated and closed systems.

Linear Momentum ($p$)

The product of the mass ($m$) and velocity ($v$) of an object ($p = mv$).

Momentum Direction

A vector quantity that points in the same direction as the velocity ($v$).

SI Units of Momentum

The standard units for measuring momentum, expressed as $kg\,m/s$.

Component Form of Momentum

The representation of momentum in three-dimensional space: $p_x = mv_x$, $p_y = mv_y$, and $p_z = mv_z$.

Newton’s Second Law (Relating to Momentum)

The constant net force acting on an object is equal to the change in an object’s momentum divided by the elapsed time.

Conservation of Momentum

The principle stating that in an isolated and closed system, the total momentum of the system remains constant in time.

Isolated System

A system in which there are no external forces acting upon it.

Closed System

A system in which no mass enters or leaves.

Total Momentum ($P$)

The sum of individual momenta in a system; it remains constant before and after a collision in an isolated system.