Integrating the Dots – Principle of Conservation of Momentum
Collisions are taking place all around us, all the time. They take place on the microscopic scale of atoms and electrons (e.g. electrons that form an electric current collide with vibrating ions in metal wire), in our everyday world (e.g. a rugby player runs into an opponent) and in outer space (e.g. an asteroid collides with a planet as it orbits the Sun).
Using the Principle of Conservation of Momentum, we could predict how the objects move after colliding with each other.
What is momentum?
momentum = mass x velocity
Principle of Conservation of Momentum
The total momentum of a system is constant provided no net external force acts on it.
Another way to express the principle,
Total momentum of objects before collision = Total momentum of objects after collision
Here’s an application example –
If you are struggling with pre-university Physics and need help, please get in touch with us. We offer a unique & superior coaching program that is more effective, flexible and cheaper. We don’t tutor, we coach!