1. Identify the system and ensure it's closed (no external forces). 2. Write down the initial momentum of all objects in the system. 3. Write down the final momentum of all objects in the system. 4. Set the total initial momentum equal to the total final momentum. $\vec{p}_{initial} = \vec{p}_{final}$. 5. Solve for the unknown quantities.

Linear momentum ($\vec{p}$) is a measure of how much "oomph" an object has in its motion. It's the product of an object's mass ($m$) and its velocity ($\vec{v}$). $\vec{p} = m \vec{v}$

Impulse ($\vec{J}$) is the change in momentum of an object. It's also equal to the net force ($\vec{F}$) acting on an object multiplied by the time interval ($\Delta t$) over which the force acts. $\vec{J} = \vec{F} \Delta t$

A collision in which kinetic energy is conserved. Objects bounce off each other without losing energy to heat or deformation. Momentum is always conserved.

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.

A special type of inelastic collision where objects stick together after colliding. The final velocity of the combined mass can be calculated using conservation of momentum.

Increasing the time of impact reduces the force experienced, given a constant impulse (change in momentum).

The object experiences an impulse, resulting in a change in its momentum.

The total momentum remains constant (is conserved).