What is the difference between linear and angular momentum?

Thread starter teng125
Start date Jan 27, 2006
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Angular Angular momentum Linear Momentum

In summary, linear momentum is the measure of an object's motion in a straight line, while angular momentum is the measure of an object's rotational motion around an axis. Linear momentum is calculated by multiplying an object's mass by its velocity, while angular momentum is calculated by multiplying an object's moment of inertia by its angular velocity. The principle of conservation of linear momentum states that the total amount of linear momentum in a closed system remains constant. An object's shape and distribution of mass affect its moment of inertia and therefore its angular momentum. Objects with more mass concentrated further from the axis of rotation will have a higher angular momentum.

Jan 27, 2006

teng125

can anybody pls explain to me what is linear and angular momentum.pls...or any website recommended.
thanx

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Jan 27, 2006

Homework Helper

Wikipedia might be a nice start, see momentum and angular momentum.

FAQ: What is the difference between linear and angular momentum?

1. What is the difference between linear and angular momentum?

Linear momentum is the measure of an object's motion in a straight line, while angular momentum is the measure of an object's rotational motion around an axis.

2. How is linear momentum calculated?

Linear momentum is calculated by multiplying an object's mass by its velocity, with the formula p = m * v. It is measured in units of kilograms-meters per second (kg*m/s).

3. How is angular momentum calculated?

Angular momentum is calculated by multiplying an object's moment of inertia by its angular velocity, with the formula L = I * ω. It is measured in units of kilogram-meters squared per second (kg*m^2/s).

4. What is the principle of conservation of linear momentum?

The principle of conservation of linear momentum states that the total amount of linear momentum in a closed system remains constant, unless acted upon by an external force. This means that in a collision or interaction, the total momentum before and after the event must be equal.

5. How does an object's shape affect its moment of inertia and angular momentum?

An object's shape and distribution of mass affect its moment of inertia, which in turn affects its angular momentum. Objects with more mass concentrated further from the axis of rotation will have a higher moment of inertia and therefore a higher angular momentum.