All Flashcards
Define linear momentum.
Linear momentum () is a measure of how much 'oomph' an object has in its motion. It's the product of an object's mass () and its velocity ().
Define impulse.
Impulse () is the change in momentum of an object. It's also equal to the net force () acting on an object multiplied by the time interval () over which the force acts.
What is an elastic collision?
A collision in which kinetic energy is conserved. Objects bounce off each other without losing energy to heat or deformation.
What is an inelastic collision?
A collision in which kinetic energy is not conserved. Some kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat or sound. Objects may stick together after the collision.
What is a perfectly inelastic collision?
A special type of inelastic collision where objects stick together after colliding.
What are the key differences between elastic and inelastic collisions?
Elastic: Kinetic energy is conserved. Inelastic: Kinetic energy is not conserved, often converted to heat/sound.
Compare momentum before and after a collision in an isolated system.
Total momentum before a collision equals total momentum after a collision (conservation of momentum).
Compare kinetic energy before and after an elastic collision.
Total kinetic energy before an elastic collision equals total kinetic energy after the collision.
Compare kinetic energy before and after an inelastic collision.
Total kinetic energy before an inelastic collision is greater than the total kinetic energy after the collision. Kinetic energy is lost to other forms of energy.
Differentiate between positive and negative momentum.
Positive momentum: motion to the right or upwards. Negative momentum: motion to the left or downwards.
What is the effect of increasing the time of impact during a collision?
Increasing the time of impact reduces the force experienced, given a constant impulse (change in momentum).
What is the effect of applying a net force on an object for a certain time interval?
The object experiences an impulse, resulting in a change in its momentum.
What happens to the total momentum of a closed system during a collision?
The total momentum remains constant (is conserved).