How is momentum lost in real life?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of momentum loss in real life and whether it is affected by factors such as friction and heat. It is noted that momentum loss implies a change in momentum, but it is also stated that if the right reference frame is chosen, no momentum is ever truly lost. The conversation also touches on the idea of momentum conservation and its application in real life situations.
  • #1
HoneyPancake
3
0
Just a quick question about conceptual stuff.

How is momentum lost in real life? Is it because of friction or heat? Yet that only affects kinetic energy, which means that momentum should still be conserved. So, what else is there?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
A momentum loss implies a change in momentum, down to a lower value. When a car is traveling at a certain speed on a road, and the driver applies the brakes and comes to a stop, does the momentum of the car change? Is momentum conserved? Why or why not? And wecome to PF!
 
  • #3
If you choose the right reference frame, no momentum is ever "lost" in real life.
 

1. How does friction affect momentum in real life?

Friction is a force that opposes motion, so it can cause a loss of momentum in real life situations. For example, when a car brakes, the friction between the tires and the road causes a loss of momentum, slowing the car down.

2. Can air resistance cause a loss of momentum?

Air resistance can definitely cause a loss of momentum in real life. When an object is moving through the air, the air molecules push against the object, slowing it down and reducing its momentum.

3. Is momentum lost when objects collide?

Yes, momentum is typically lost when objects collide in real life. This is due to the conservation of momentum principle, which states that the total momentum in a closed system remains constant. When two objects collide, the momentum of the first object decreases, while the momentum of the second object increases.

4. How does gravity affect momentum?

Gravity can affect momentum in different ways depending on the situation. For example, if an object is falling due to gravity, its momentum will increase as it accelerates towards the ground. However, if an object is thrown upwards, gravity will slow it down and decrease its momentum.

5. Can sound waves cause a loss of momentum?

No, sound waves themselves do not cause a loss of momentum in real life. Sound is a form of energy that is transferred through vibrations, so while it may affect the motion of objects, it does not directly cause a loss of momentum.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
50
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
228
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
40
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
989
Back
Top