Conservation of Momentum: Understanding the Law and Its Applications

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the Law of Conservation of Momentum, emphasizing that momentum is conserved in isolated systems where only internal forces act, and external forces equal zero. The equation \(\Sigma\vec{p} = 0\) is highlighted as a key principle. Participants explore the implications of direction during collisions and the application of impulse-momentum theory, represented by the equation \(F_{net} (t_{2} - t_{1}) = mv_{2} - mv_{1}\). The conversation also touches on the challenges of using LaTeX for equations in physics homework.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Laws of Motion
  • Familiarity with the concept of momentum (\(\vec{p} = m\vec{v}\))
  • Basic knowledge of calculus, particularly integration
  • Experience with LaTeX for formatting equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of isolated systems in physics
  • Study the impulse-momentum theorem in depth
  • Learn how to apply conservation laws in collision problems
  • Practice using LaTeX for complex equations in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, educators teaching momentum concepts, and anyone looking to improve their problem-solving skills in calculus-based physics.

kyin01
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Homework Statement


1-12.png

Calculus based so feel free to explain with integrals and such

Homework Equations


\vec{p}=m\vec{v}

Newton's 3rd law, action reaction forces are internal forces.


The Attempt at a Solution


I Guess my question is just understand why I got those answers. I'm a little confused on when momentum is conserved (Law of conservation of momentum). Is it only in an isolated system? Where only internal forces react and external forces equal to 0?

And if that's the case, does that mean law of conservation of momentum states that \Sigma\vec{p} = 0 ?

So like for example in question B, why would direction matter? Because either way it still collides right?
 
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Yes that is correct answwer. Its kinda hard to understand at first, but think of the objects moving parellel to x axis, one going positive other in negative way both collide, both didint have same direction, since one direction was negative other was positive . So the correct answer would be dependent on the objects how they were moving previous to collions and sticking
 
Okay, I see what you mean, it can also crash when one is going faster and in the same direction. I just need to get use to it I guess, which brings me to my next problem

Homework Statement


2-7.png

Homework Equations


F_{net} (t_{2} - t_{1} ) = mv_{2} - mv_{1}
Which is the impluse momentum theory.
I seriously hate the latex coding sometimes, same coding but the right side of the equation didnt make subscripts

The Attempt at a Solution



So I tried integrating the above equation but I don't know how to put it in terms of F and t. I've also tried rearranging the above equation so that momentum at the 2nd time will equal something, but I get a V variable when I did that.
 
Last edited:
well you would be integrating i belivee respect to time from t=0 to some t in the future, btw where are you taking these questions, i kinkda would like to try them myselves :)
 
Hey what program/website/? is that you are using? I really dig that format of how it presents the information and questions.
 
th3plan said:
well you would be integrating i belivee respect to time from t=0 to some t in the future, btw where are you taking these questions, i kinkda would like to try them myselves :)

Yeah that's what I thought too, but when I did that I was left with variables m and t, no F.
And they want it in terms with F

and it's masteringphysics.com
It's a pay site :(
 

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