Momentum and Collisions IGCSE Physics: Complete Guide

💥 Understanding Momentum in IGCSE Physics

Momentum describes motion quantity and is conserved in collisions. This guide covers momentum calculations and collision analysis.

🧠 Memory Tips

Momentum Formula: “Mass Velocity”

• p = mv (momentum = mass × velocity)
• Unit: kg⋅m/s

Conservation: “Total Before = Total After”

• Before collision: p₁ + p₂
• After collision: p₁’ + p₂’
• Conservation: Total momentum unchanged

Collision Types: “Elastic Inelastic”

• Elastic: Kinetic energy conserved
• Inelastic: Kinetic energy not conserved

📚 Key Concepts

What is Momentum?

• Definition: Quantity of motion
• Formula: p = mv
• Vector quantity: Has direction
• Units: kg⋅m/s or N⋅s

Conservation of Momentum

• Principle: Total momentum conserved in collisions
• Isolated system: No external forces
• Before = After: p₁ + p₂ = p₁’ + p₂’
• Universal law: Always applies

Types of Collisions

• Elastic: Objects bounce apart, KE conserved
• Inelastic: Objects stick together, KE lost
• Perfectly inelastic: Maximum KE loss
• Real collisions: Usually between extremes

Impulse

• Definition: Change in momentum
• Formula: Impulse = FΔt = Δp
• Applications: Car safety, sports
• Relationship: Force × time = momentum change

🎯 Exam Focus

Common Questions:

1. Calculate momentum in collisions (4 marks)
2. Apply conservation of momentum (5 marks)
3. Explain impulse applications (4 marks)
4. Compare collision types (3 marks)

Key Applications:

• Car crash safety
• Sports equipment design
• Rocket propulsion
• Particle physics

🚀 Master Momentum

Excel in momentum physics with comprehensive collision analysis and conservation studies.

ACCESS PHYSICS RESOURCES