Doubling the kinetic energy of an object does what to momentum?

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SUMMARY

Doubling the kinetic energy (KE) of an object increases its momentum (p), but not in a linear fashion. The relationship is defined by the equation E_k = p²/2m, indicating that while kinetic energy increases, momentum does not simply double. The discussion also highlights that momentum is a vector quantity, which can result in a net momentum of zero when multiple vectors cancel each other out, as illustrated by a nest of insects.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy and momentum equations
  • Familiarity with vector quantities in physics
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
  • Knowledge of mass (m) in relation to kinetic energy and momentum
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  • Study the derivation of the kinetic energy and momentum equations
  • Explore vector addition and its implications in physics
  • Investigate real-world examples of momentum cancellation
  • Learn about the implications of mass in kinetic energy and momentum calculations
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the relationship between kinetic energy and momentum in physical systems.

Faded Maximus
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Would doubling the kinetic energy of an object have any effect on the momentum?
 
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Yes, KE=p^2/2m.
 
Yes,According to this equation showing the relation between momentum and kinetic energy:
E_k = \frac {p^2}{2m}
I tried reversing the equation and I think you should a negative effect on the momentum
 
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I tried reversing the equation and I think you should a negative effect on the momentum

What do you mean by negative effect? If the kinetic energy increases the momentum increases (although it won't double).
 
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Im stuck on this.

How could a nest of insects have a momentum of zero?
 
Last edited:
Diogenes, momentum is a vector. All the insects momentum vectors could add up to nothing.
 

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