Conservation of momentum basics

In summary, conservation of momentum is a fundamental principle in physics stating that the total momentum of a closed system remains constant. Momentum is calculated as the product of an object's mass and velocity, and it can only be transferred between objects within a system. An example of conservation of momentum is when billiard balls collide, and it applies to many real-world situations, such as collisions and sports. However, momentum cannot be conserved in an open system where external forces can change it, such as a rocket traveling through space.
  • #1
MCATPhys
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Two baseballs undergo a head-on collision. Ball 1 is twice as heavy as ball 2. Ball 1 is traveling at an initial speed of v1, while ball 2 had an initial speed of v2. Elastic collision. If ball 1 travels at a speed of 7/5v1 after impact, what is the speed of ball 2?

Conservation of momentum led me to this equation:

v2 - 1.8v1 = vf

(vf is the velocity of ball 2)

The answer is 1.6v1 = 2v2

I know there is some basic idea that i am missing...
 
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  • #2
Elastic collision, so kinetic energy is conserved as well.
 

FAQ: Conservation of momentum basics

What is conservation of momentum?

Conservation of momentum is a fundamental principle in physics that states that the total momentum of a closed system remains constant, regardless of any external forces acting on the system. In other words, momentum cannot be created or destroyed, it can only be transferred between objects within the system.

How is momentum calculated?

Momentum is calculated as the product of an object's mass and its velocity. The formula for momentum is p = mv, where p is momentum, m is mass, and v is velocity. Momentum is measured in units of kilogram-meters per second (kg*m/s).

What is an example of conservation of momentum?

An example of conservation of momentum is when a billiard ball collides with another billiard ball on a pool table. The total momentum of the two balls before and after the collision remains the same, even though the direction and speed of each individual ball may change.

How does conservation of momentum apply to real-world situations?

Conservation of momentum applies to many real-world situations, such as collisions between objects, rocket propulsion, and even sports like ice skating and skating. It is a fundamental principle in understanding and predicting the behavior of physical systems.

Can momentum be conserved in an open system?

No, momentum can only be conserved in a closed system where there is no external force acting on the system. In an open system, such as a rocket traveling through space, momentum can change as a result of external forces, such as gravity or air resistance.

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