Conservation of momentum
I can use the principle of conservation of momentum to calculate motions after a collision or explosion.
Conservation of momentum
I can use the principle of conservation of momentum to calculate motions after a collision or explosion.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Momentum = mass × velocity, p = mv
- In a closed system, the total momentum before an event equals the total momentum after the event.
Common misconception
Pupils may assume that being able to complete calculations by substituting numbers into an equation is the same as fully understanding the relationship.
Include questions for which pupils are required to explain their understanding.
Keywords
Momentum - is the product of the mass and velocity of an object, p = m × v
Kilogram metres per second - is the unit of momentum (kg m/s)
Conservation of momentum - is the principle that states, for a closed system, momentum is always conserved in any interaction
Collisions - happen when two objects move together and hit each other
Explosions - happen when a single object splits, or combined objects separate, into pieces that move apart
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
momentum -
the product of the mass and velocity of an object, $$p = m × v$$
kilogram metres per second (kg m/s) -
the unit of momentum
conservation of momentum -
for a closed system, momentum is always conserved in any interaction
collisions -
happen when two objects move together and hit each other
explosions -
happen when a single object splits into pieces that move apart