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Momentum
Introduction
Momentum is a fundamental concept in mechanics that describes the quantity of motion possessed by a moving object. The principle of conservation of momentum allows physicists to analyse collisions and explosions by considering the total momentum of a system before and after an interaction. This topic also introduces impulse and explains how changes in momentum are related to force and time.
AQA A Level Physics Specification: 3.4.2.5 Momentum
What You Need to Know
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Define momentum as the product of mass and velocity.
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Calculate the momentum of moving objects.
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State and apply the principle of conservation of momentum.
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Distinguish between isolated and non-isolated systems.
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Analyse collisions and explosions using conservation of momentum.
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Define impulse as the change in momentum.
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Calculate impulse using force and the time for which it acts.
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Interpret force-time graphs to determine impulse.
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Solve quantitative problems involving momentum, impulse and collisions.
Downloadable Topic Pack
Momentum Topic Pack Exam Questions and Answers
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