All Flashcards
What happens to momentum when there is zero net external force vs. nonzero net external force?
Zero Net External Force: Total momentum of the system stays constant. Nonzero Net External Force: Momentum is transferred between the system and its surroundings.
What are the differences between elastic and inelastic collisions?
Elastic Collision: Kinetic energy is conserved. Inelastic Collision: Kinetic energy is not conserved.
How do you calculate the total momentum of a system?
Add up all the individual momenta, remembering that momentum is a vector (direction matters!).
What is the first step in solving momentum conservation problems?
Define your system to identify if external forces are present and if momentum is conserved.
What is the effect of an external force acting on a system?
The change in momentum of the system will equal the impulse of that force.
What happens when the net external force on a system is zero?
The total momentum of that system stays constant.
What is the effect of impulse on momentum?
Impulse causes a change in momentum.