Momentum and Impulse Calculator

Calculate momentum, impulse, elastic and inelastic collisions

Key Equations

p = mv
Momentum
J = Ft = change in p
Impulse
m1u1 + m2u2 = m1v1 + m2v2
Conservation of Momentum
KE1i + KE2i = KE1f + KE2f
Conservation of KE (Elastic)

Elastic Collision Calculator

Both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved. Objects bounce off each other.

Object 1

Object 2

Negative = moving left
Reset

About the Momentum Calculator

This free momentum calculator physics tool helps students and educators solve momentum, impulse, and collision problems with detailed step-by-step solutions.

What is Momentum?

Momentum (p) is the product of an object mass and velocity: p = mv. It is a vector quantity with both magnitude and direction. The SI unit is kg m/s.

  • Momentum is conserved in isolated systems
  • Greater mass or velocity means greater momentum
  • Direction matters (positive vs negative)

What is Impulse?

Impulse (J) is the change in momentum of an object. It equals force multiplied by time: J = Ft = change in p

  • Car airbags increase collision time to reduce force
  • Sports: follow-through increases contact time
  • Catching a ball: moving hands backward extends time

Elastic vs Inelastic Collisions

Elastic Collision: Both momentum AND kinetic energy are conserved. Objects bounce off each other. Example: billiard balls.

Inelastic Collision: Only momentum is conserved. Some kinetic energy is lost to heat, sound, or deformation. Example: car crashes.

Perfectly Inelastic: Objects stick together after collision. Maximum kinetic energy loss while conserving momentum.

Real-World Applications

  • Vehicle Safety: Crumple zones, airbags, seatbelts
  • Sports: Baseball bats, golf clubs, tennis rackets
  • Space: Rocket propulsion, satellite maneuvers
  • Physics Research: Particle accelerators, nuclear reactions
  • Engineering: Impact testing, material science