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  1. AP Physics C Mechanics
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What is the definition of Center of Mass (COM)?

The point at which the total mass of a system is considered concentrated.

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What is the definition of Center of Mass (COM)?

The point at which the total mass of a system is considered concentrated.

What is the definition of Momentum (p)?

The product of an object's mass and velocity: p=mvp = mvp=mv.

What is the definition of Impulse (J)?

The change in momentum of an object: J=Δp=FΔtJ = \Delta p = F\Delta tJ=Δp=FΔt.

What is the definition of Elastic Collision?

A collision where both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved.

What is the definition of Inelastic Collision?

A collision where momentum is conserved, but kinetic energy is not.

What is the definition of Perfectly Inelastic Collision?

A collision where objects stick together after impact.

How do you calculate the Center of Mass (COM) in one dimension?

Use the formula: xcm=∑mixi∑mix_{cm} = \frac{\sum m_i x_i}{\sum m_i}xcm​=∑mi​∑mi​xi​​, where mim_imi​ is the mass of the i-th particle and xix_ixi​ is its position.

What is the impulse-momentum theorem?

The impulse on an object is equal to the change in its momentum: J=ΔpJ = \Delta pJ=Δp.

How do you apply the law of conservation of momentum?

Set the total initial momentum equal to the total final momentum: ∑pinitial=∑pfinal\sum p_{initial} = \sum p_{final}∑pinitial​=∑pfinal​.

What is the effect of applying an impulse to an object?

It causes a change in the object's momentum.

What happens when no external forces act on a system?

The total momentum of the system remains constant (Law of Conservation of Momentum).

What happens during a perfectly inelastic collision?

The colliding objects stick together and move as one mass, with kinetic energy not conserved.