Physics: Linear Momentum & Angular Momentum of Rigid Body

[ridefast42]

Well I took physics last year(sophomore year in high school) and the kinametics section is extremely primitive because it had to be done without calculus. So we mainly just covered linear motion, F=ma stuff.My question is, if you apply a force to a point on a rigid body other than the center of mass, does the linear momentum change according to F=ma still while the angular momentum changes by torque induced by the same force?In other words, does the linear momentum change as if the force was exerted at the center of mass?

 

[Doc Al]

Yes. The acceleration of the center of mass is given by F = ma, regardless of where the force is applied.

 

[ridefast42]

Does this also mean that conservation of linear momentum and conservation of angular momentum are calculated differently?

Thanks.

 

[Doc Al]

Being different quantities, linear momentum and angular momentum are certainly computed differently. (If that's what you're asking.)

 

[ridefast42]

I see now.Thank you for your replies.