Momentum Concept Check: Understand p = mv and F=ma

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    Concept Momentum
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concepts of momentum, represented by the equation p = mv, and force, represented by F = ma. Participants explore the relationship between these concepts, their definitions, and their implications in physics, particularly in the context of changing the motion of objects.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that momentum is distinct from force and energy, describing it as an independent concept.
  • It is proposed that both p = mv and F = ma serve to calculate the effort required to change the motion of an object, with p = mv focusing on momentum before and after a speed change, while F = ma relates to acceleration.
  • Inertia is described as a property of mass that resists changes in speed, while momentum quantifies the effort needed to alter that speed.
  • A later reply suggests that "speed" should be replaced with "velocity" in earlier points, emphasizing that velocity accounts for direction, particularly in circular motion where speed remains constant but direction changes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express some agreement on the definitions and distinctions between momentum and force, but there is a disagreement regarding the terminology used, particularly the distinction between speed and velocity.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the implications of using "speed" versus "velocity," particularly in contexts involving circular motion and acceleration.

Zynoakib
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1. Momentum is not a force nor energy, it is a completely independent thing

2. Both p = mv and F= ma is for calculating the effort of changing the speed of an moving object, but the former one do this through comparing the momentum of an object before and after it changes speed while the latter one do this through the object's acceleration. They are just two different methods for achieving the same goal

3. Inertia is a property of an object with mass for being reluctant to change its speed while momentum really quantifies the effort required to change one's speed.

Thank you, These clarification would give me a big help!
 
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Zynoakib said:
1. Momentum is not a force nor energy, it is a completely independent thing

2. Both p = mv and F= ma is for calculating the effort of changing the speed of an moving object, but the former one do this through comparing the momentum of an object before and after it changes speed while the latter one do this through the object's acceleration. They are just two different methods for achieving the same goal

3. Inertia is a property of an object with mass for being reluctant to change its speed while momentum really quantifies the effort required to change one's speed.

Thank you, These clarification would give me a big help!
That's a good summary, except you need to replace "speed" with "velocity" everywhere in these points. Circular motion may be at a constant speed although its direction (and hence velocity) is continuously changing---and an accelerating force must continuously counter inertia resisting that change in direction.
 
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Thanks guys!
 

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