Conservation of Momentum

Definition

Conservation of momentum states that in any closed system where no external forces act, the total momentum before an event equals the total momentum after the event. Momentum refers to mass in motion.

Related terms

Impulse:

The change in momentum of an object caused by a force acting on it for a certain amount of time.

Elastic Collision:

A collision between objects where both kinetic energy and momentum are conserved.

Inelastic Collision:

A collision between objects where only momentum is conserved, but kinetic energy is not conserved.