Momentum and Impulse in Physics Explained for Dummies
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16
0
K
kylie
7/24/2025
Physics
momentum and impulse
345
•
Jul 24, 2025
•
Momentum and Impulse: Easy Physics for Class 9-11
K
kylie
@kylie_ywwr
Conservation of Momentum
Law of Conservation of Momentum
The law of conservation of momentum is a fundamental principle in physics, stating that the total momentum in an isolated system remains constant.
Definition: In any closed system, the total momentum before an event equals the total momentum after the event.
Types of Collisions
Collisions in physics are categorized into three main types:
- Elastic collision: Objects bounce off each other, conserving both momentum and kinetic energy.
- Inelastic collision: Objects stick together after collision, conserving momentum but not kinetic energy.
- Explosion: Objects move apart (reverse collision), conserving momentum.
Equations for Momentum Conservation
For one-dimensional collisions, the equation is:
Formula: Σpf = Σpi or m₁v₁i + m₂v₂i = m₁v₁f + m₂v₂f
For two-dimensional collisions, we consider x and y components separately:
Formula: Σpix = Σpfx : m₁v₁ix + m₂v₂ix = m₁v₁fx + m₂v₂fx Σpiy = Σpfy : m₁v₁iy + m₂v₂iy = m₁v₁fy + m₂v₂fy
These equations are crucial for solving problems involving collisions and explosions in various scenarios, from simple object interactions to complex physical systems.
Highlight: Understanding these equations is essential for momentum in physics explained class 11 and higher levels, as they form the basis for more advanced concepts in mechanics.
Momentum and Impulse
Understanding Momentum
Momentum in physics is a crucial concept that measures how difficult it is to stop an object in motion. It depends on both the mass and velocity of the object.
Definition: Momentum (p) is defined as the product of an object's mass and its velocity, expressed as p = mv.
Vocabulary: Momentum is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.
The direction of momentum is always the same as the direction of motion. Objects with large mass, high speed, or both have significant momentum. Conversely, stationary objects have zero momentum.
Example: A 60kg halfback moving east at 9 m/s has a momentum of 540 kg⋅m/s east.
Impulse and Its Relationship to Momentum
Impulse is closely related to momentum and is defined as the change in momentum.
Definition: Impulse (J) is calculated as J = Δp = m(vf - vi) = Ft, where F is force and t is time.
An important application of impulse is in reducing the force required to stop an object by increasing the time of contact. This principle is used in various safety features and equipment.
Example: Bubble wrap, football gear, running shoes, and car crumple zones all utilize the impulse principle to reduce impact forces.
Highlight: To lower the force needed to stop an object, increase the time the objects are in contact.
Practical Application of Impulse
Consider a scenario where we need to increase the speed of a 1000kg car from 10m/s to 30m/s over a distance of 100m.
- Calculate the impulse: J = 1000(30 - 10) = 20,000 kg⋅m/s
- Determine the time using displacement equations: t = 5s
- Calculate the average force: F = J/t = 20,000/5 = 4000N
Alternatively, we can calculate the acceleration (a = 4 m/s²) and use F = ma to arrive at the same result.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Momentum and Impulse: Easy Physics for Class 9-11
K
kylie
@kylie_ywwr
Momentum and Impulse in Physics Explained for Dummies
This guide covers the fundamental concepts of momentum and impulse in physics, including their definitions, formulas, and applications. It also explores the law of conservation of momentum and different types of collisions.... Show more
Conservation of Momentum
Law of Conservation of Momentum
The law of conservation of momentum is a fundamental principle in physics, stating that the total momentum in an isolated system remains constant.
Definition: In any closed system, the total momentum before an event equals the total momentum after the event.
Types of Collisions
Collisions in physics are categorized into three main types:
- Elastic collision: Objects bounce off each other, conserving both momentum and kinetic energy.
- Inelastic collision: Objects stick together after collision, conserving momentum but not kinetic energy.
- Explosion: Objects move apart (reverse collision), conserving momentum.
Equations for Momentum Conservation
For one-dimensional collisions, the equation is:
Formula: Σpf = Σpi or m₁v₁i + m₂v₂i = m₁v₁f + m₂v₂f
For two-dimensional collisions, we consider x and y components separately:
Formula: Σpix = Σpfx : m₁v₁ix + m₂v₂ix = m₁v₁fx + m₂v₂fx Σpiy = Σpfy : m₁v₁iy + m₂v₂iy = m₁v₁fy + m₂v₂fy
These equations are crucial for solving problems involving collisions and explosions in various scenarios, from simple object interactions to complex physical systems.
Highlight: Understanding these equations is essential for momentum in physics explained class 11 and higher levels, as they form the basis for more advanced concepts in mechanics.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Momentum and Impulse
Understanding Momentum
Momentum in physics is a crucial concept that measures how difficult it is to stop an object in motion. It depends on both the mass and velocity of the object.
Definition: Momentum (p) is defined as the product of an object's mass and its velocity, expressed as p = mv.
Vocabulary: Momentum is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.
The direction of momentum is always the same as the direction of motion. Objects with large mass, high speed, or both have significant momentum. Conversely, stationary objects have zero momentum.
Example: A 60kg halfback moving east at 9 m/s has a momentum of 540 kg⋅m/s east.
Impulse and Its Relationship to Momentum
Impulse is closely related to momentum and is defined as the change in momentum.
Definition: Impulse (J) is calculated as J = Δp = m(vf - vi) = Ft, where F is force and t is time.
An important application of impulse is in reducing the force required to stop an object by increasing the time of contact. This principle is used in various safety features and equipment.
Example: Bubble wrap, football gear, running shoes, and car crumple zones all utilize the impulse principle to reduce impact forces.
Highlight: To lower the force needed to stop an object, increase the time the objects are in contact.
Practical Application of Impulse
Consider a scenario where we need to increase the speed of a 1000kg car from 10m/s to 30m/s over a distance of 100m.
- Calculate the impulse: J = 1000(30 - 10) = 20,000 kg⋅m/s
- Determine the time using displacement equations: t = 5s
- Calculate the average force: F = J/t = 20,000/5 = 4000N
Alternatively, we can calculate the acceleration (a = 4 m/s²) and use F = ma to arrive at the same result.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user