Momentum and Collisions Flashcards

Grade 11 · Science · Flashcards

Key terms and formulas for momentum, impulse, and collision analysis in advanced physics.

Flashcards

Linear Momentum: p = mv; a vector quantity (kg·m/s) in the direction of velocity; describes an object's 'quantity of motion'.
Impulse: J = FΔt = Δp; the product of force and time interval; equals the change in momentum produced.
Law of Conservation of Momentum: Total momentum of an isolated system is constant; Σp_before = Σp_after.
Elastic Collision: Both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved; objects bounce with no energy loss to heat or deformation.
Inelastic Collision: Momentum conserved; kinetic energy is NOT conserved due to energy conversion to heat, sound, or deformation.
Perfectly Inelastic Collision: Objects stick together after collision; maximum kinetic energy is lost while momentum is still conserved.
Elastic Collision Velocity Formulas: v1' = (m1-m2)/(m1+m2) · v1; v2' = 2m1/(m1+m2) · v1 (when v2_initial = 0).
Coefficient of Restitution (e): e = relative speed of separation / relative speed of approach; ranges from 0 (perfectly inelastic) to 1 (elastic).
Center of Mass Velocity: v_cm = Σ(m_i · v_i) / Σm_i; remains constant if no external net force acts on the system.
2D Momentum Conservation: x-components: Σp_x conserved independently; y-components: Σp_y conserved independently.
Explosion (Recoil): Internal forces push parts apart; total momentum remains constant (zero if system started at rest).
Newton's Second Law in Momentum Form: F_net = Δp/Δt; net force equals the rate of change of momentum.