How Does Momentum Define Motion in Physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of momentum in physics, exploring its definition and implications in various contexts, including theoretical and conceptual understandings.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for a clear definition of momentum, indicating a need for clarification on the concept.
  • Another participant provides a simplified explanation, noting that momentum is represented by the symbol "P" and is calculated as mass multiplied by velocity.
  • A further contribution elaborates on momentum by describing it in the context of a system of point particles, emphasizing the conservation of the quantity mv and defining momentum as p = mv.
  • One participant succinctly defines momentum as a "quantity of motion," suggesting a more abstract understanding of the term.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding and definitions of momentum, with no consensus reached on a singular definition or explanation.

Contextual Notes

Some definitions provided may depend on specific contexts or interpretations, and the discussion does not resolve the nuances of momentum's definition or its implications in different scenarios.

JULIE PA double ®
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What exactly is "Momentum"?

What exactly is "Momentum"?
 
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Geez julie! You're smart let me tell ya:) lol I'm not sure what you mean by saying "what exactly is momentum" but i know for our class it's that little P thing...and it's mass 'x' velocity:) hopefully that helped you out;)
 


Originally posted by JULIE PA double ®
What exactly is "Momentum"?

Consider a system of point particles bouncing around and off each other in an inertial frame of referance. Define a quantity massociated with each particle such that the quantity mv is conserved. Give the name mass to the quantity "m". It is found experimentally that such a quantity exists for each particle. Define the quantity p as p = mv. The quantity p is called the momentum of the particle whose mass is m and whose velocity is v.
 


Originally posted by JULIE PA double ®
What exactly is "Momentum"?
Quantity of motion.
 

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