Conservation of Momentum

Definition

Conservation of momentum states that the total momentum before a collision or interaction is equal to the total momentum after. In other words, momentum is conserved in isolated systems where no external forces act upon them.

Related terms

Elastic Collision:

A collision between objects where kinetic energy is conserved.

Inelastic Collision:

A collision between objects where kinetic energy is not conserved.

Impulse-Momentum Theorem: Relates changes in momentum to applied forces over time, stating that impulse equals change in momentum.