Momentum Definitions Flashcards
Momentum
The product of the mass and velocity of an object
Newton’s Second Law in terms of momentum
The net force acting on an object is equal to the rate of change of momentum
Newton’s Third Law
When object A exerts a force on object B, object B simultaneously exerts an oppositely directed force of equal magnitude on object A.
The law of conservation of momentum
The total linear momentum of an isolated system remains constant
Elastic collision
A collision in which both energy and momentum are preserved
Inelastic collision
A collision in which only momentum is preserved
Impulse
The product of the net force and the contact time
Gravitational potential energy
The energy an object possesses due to its position relative to a reference point
Kinetic energy
The energy an object has due to its motion
Mechanical energy
The sum of gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy at a point
Law of conservation of energy
The total energy in a system cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.
Principle of conservation of mechanical energy
In the absence of air resistance or any other external forces, the mechanical energy of an object is constant.
