Momentum Comparison
About This MicroSim
This interactive simulation demonstrates how mass and velocity combine to determine momentum, and shows momentum as a vector quantity that can be positive or negative depending on direction.
Key Equation
\[\vec{p} = m\vec{v}\]
Where: - p = momentum (kg·m/s) - m = mass (kg) - v = velocity (m/s)
Visual Elements
- Object Size: Proportional to mass (larger = more massive)
- Green Arrows: Velocity vectors (pointing in direction of motion)
- Colored Arrows Below Objects: Momentum vectors (length proportional to momentum)
- Vector Addition Diagram: Shows how individual momenta add to give total system momentum
Controls
- Object A Mass: Adjust mass from 0.1 to 10 kg
- Object A Velocity: Adjust velocity from -10 to +10 m/s
- Object B Mass: Adjust mass from 0.1 to 10 kg
- Object B Velocity: Adjust velocity from -10 to +10 m/s
- Reset Defaults: Return to initial values
Key Observations
- Positive velocity → Positive momentum (moving right)
- Negative velocity → Negative momentum (moving left)
- A light fast object can have the same momentum as a heavy slow object
- Total momentum is the vector sum: pA + pB = pTotal
- When momenta are opposite, they partially or fully cancel
Learning Objectives
- Understand that momentum is a vector quantity
- Calculate momentum from mass and velocity
- Perform vector addition of momenta
- Recognize that direction matters in momentum calculations