Are momentum and inertia definite ?

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter synch
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Inertia Momentum
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concepts of momentum and inertia within the framework of Newtonian physics. It establishes that both momentum and inertia are relative to the chosen reference frame, meaning their values can change based on the observer's perspective. In contrast, certain quantities such as mass, distance, and duration remain invariant regardless of the reference frame. This distinction is crucial for understanding the fundamental principles of classical mechanics and their implications in relativity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newtonian physics principles
  • Familiarity with concepts of reference frames
  • Knowledge of momentum and inertia definitions
  • Basic grasp of relativity and its differences from Newtonian mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of reference frames in classical mechanics
  • Study the differences between invariant and relative quantities in physics
  • Explore the concept of relativistic momentum in Einstein's theory
  • Learn about the role of mass in both Newtonian and relativistic contexts
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching classical mechanics, and anyone interested in the foundational concepts of motion and reference frames in both Newtonian and relativistic physics.

synch
Messages
84
Reaction score
11
If an object is moving it has momentum .. but if the frame of reference is altered so the speed matches, the momentum apparently vanishes (?!). Likewise with apparent inertia during acceleration of an object - similar acceleration of the frame can radically alter the perceived affect. Can absolute measurements be made in Newtonian physics?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
synch said:
if the frame of reference is altered so the speed matches, the momentum apparently vanishes (?!).
Yes.
synch said:
Likewise with apparent inertia during acceleration of an object - similar acceleration of the frame can radically alter the perceived affect.
I don’t understand this comment.
synch said:
Can absolute measurements be made in Newtonian physics?
In Newtonian physics some concepts are relative to the chosen reference frame and other concepts are invariant under a choice of reference frame. Velocity, energy, momentum, etc, all depend on the reference frame. Mass, distance, duration, etc., do not.

This general categorization also holds in relativity, but the specific list of relative vs invariant quantities differs. For example momentum is relative in both and mass is invariant in both, but duration is invariant in Newtonian mechanics and relative in relativity.
 
  • Like
  • Informative
Likes   Reactions: anorlunda and Ibix

Similar threads

  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
7K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 35 ·
2
Replies
35
Views
4K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
8K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
778
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 117 ·
4
Replies
117
Views
9K