Change in momentum

Definition

The change in momentum refers to the difference between the initial momentum and the final momentum of an object. It is a measure of how much an object's motion has changed.

Analogy

Imagine you are riding a bicycle and suddenly apply the brakes. The change in momentum can be compared to how quickly your speed decreases when you hit the brakes. If you hit them gently, your speed will decrease slowly, resulting in a small change in momentum. But if you slam on the brakes, your speed will decrease rapidly, causing a large change in momentum.

Related terms

Initial Momentum: The initial momentum is the amount of motion an object has before any external forces act upon it.

Final Momentum: The final momentum is the amount of motion an object has after all external forces have acted upon it.

Impulse: Impulse refers to the force applied to an object over a certain period of time, resulting in a change in its momentum.