Change in momentum of different masses

In summary, the change in momentum is related to mass by the equation M(v-u) or F.time. This suggests that for a given impulse, the change in momentum will be the same regardless of the mass being pushed. However, if the mass is increased by four times, the change in velocity will decrease by four times.
  • #1
judas_priest
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Homework Statement


How is change in momentum related to mass? Will the change in momentum for a mass of 4m being pushed with constant force be same as the change in momentum for a mass of m being pushed with same force?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I know Change of momentum (i.e Impulse) is M(v-u) which is also equal to F.time. But that would suggest change in momentum for mass of $m is more than that of m. Is that right?
 
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  • #2
Momentum is mass X velocity, or change in momentul is mass X change in velocity.
For a given impulse, F X Time, the change in momentum will be the same. If the mass is increased by 4 times, then the change in velocity will decrease by 4 times.
 
  • #3
barryj said:
Momentum is mass X velocity, or change in momentul is mass X change in velocity.
For a given impulse, F X Time, the change in momentum will be the same. If the mass is increased by 4 times, then the change in velocity will decrease by 4 times.

Yup, that was my thought. Wanted to get it cleared. Thanks!
 

Related to Change in momentum of different masses

1. What is momentum and how is it related to mass?

Momentum is a measure of an object's motion and is directly related to its mass. It is defined as the product of an object's mass and its velocity. The greater the mass of an object, the greater its momentum will be at a given velocity.

2. How does the change in mass affect the change in momentum?

The change in mass of an object will have a direct impact on the change in its momentum. This is because momentum is directly proportional to mass, so a change in mass will result in a change in momentum. The greater the change in mass, the greater the change in momentum will be.

3. What factors affect the change in momentum of different masses?

The change in momentum of different masses can be affected by various factors such as the mass and velocity of the object, the presence of external forces, and the duration of the change in momentum. Additionally, the type of collision or interaction between the masses can also impact the change in momentum.

4. Can the change in momentum of different masses be negative?

Yes, the change in momentum of different masses can be negative. This can occur when the direction of the force or velocity is in the opposite direction of the initial momentum. In this case, the change in momentum will be negative, indicating a decrease in the object's overall momentum.

5. How is the change in momentum of different masses calculated?

The change in momentum of different masses can be calculated using the formula: ∆p = m∆v, where ∆p is the change in momentum, m is the mass of the object, and ∆v is the change in velocity. This formula can be used to calculate the change in momentum for both elastic and inelastic collisions.

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