Momentum, collisions and conservation laws

3 quick checks≈2% of the testStretch

Reading is free. Sign in to tick off lessons, keep your place and track your mastery.

By the end you’ll be able to

Calculate momentum using $p=mv$ and use correct units of $\text{kg m s}^{-1}$.
Apply the principle of conservation of momentum to collisions, explosions and recoil in isolated systems.
Calculate unknown masses or velocities before and after interactions using momentum conservation.

0% read

Explain how seat belts, airbags, crumple zones, helmets and similar devices reduce injury by increasing the time over which momentum changes.

Interpret motion and collision scenarios qualitatively and quantitatively, including the direction of momentum using sign conventions where appropriate.

This lesson hasn’t been written yet

GCSE Physics lessons are written from the official syllabus the first time a learner opens them, then saved for everyone. Sign in and this one is written for you in a minute or two. It’s free.

Sign in Create a free account