Learning objectives
Define linear momentum as p = mv and explain why it is a vector whose direction is that of the velocity
Define impulse as J = FΔt, relate it to the area under a force–time graph, and apply the impulse–momentum theorem to find the change in momentum of a system
Express Newton's second law as the rate of change of momentum and explain why this statement is more general than F = ma
Explain, using the impulse–momentum theorem, how lengthening the duration of a collision reduces the average force, as in crumple zones, airbags and follow-through in sport
Calculate the velocity of the center of mass of a system of objects and explain why internal forces cannot change it
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