Why you call momentum for momentum?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the terminology surrounding momentum and impulse, specifically the definitions used in English compared to Latvian and Russian. Momentum, defined as p=mv, originates from the Latin word "Mótus," meaning movement, while impulse, derived from "impulsus," refers to the product of force and time (Ft), which also equals the change in momentum. Despite linguistic differences, the mathematical definitions remain consistent across languages. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding scientific terminology to avoid confusion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically momentum and impulse
  • Familiarity with Latin terminology related to motion and force
  • Knowledge of the mathematical relationship between force, momentum, and impulse
  • Awareness of the differences between everyday and scientific meanings of terms
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  • Research the mathematical derivation of momentum and impulse in classical mechanics
  • Explore the historical evolution of scientific terminology in physics
  • Study the differences between everyday language and scientific language in physics
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Students of physics, educators, translators of scientific texts, and anyone interested in the precise definitions of physical concepts across different languages.

archis
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I am confused. For you, americans, value p=mv is momentum. But in my language (latvian and also in russian) we call it impulss. Whats wrong with the definitions? I think for you impulss is dP (F=dP/dt).
 
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Momentum comes from the Latin word Mótus, meaning movement or motion. Hence it is associated with velocity.

Impulse comes from the Latin impulsus meaning to push. Hence it is associated with Force.
 
Yes, impulse is force multiplied by time. Ft (=Change in momentum)
It has the same units as momentum.
The words may change from language to language but the definitions are mathematical, and are the same in all languages.
In English, for example, words like force, power, momentum and impulse have "everyday" meanings that do not necessarily correspond to their scientific meanings.
 

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