Linear Momentum of a System of Particles
Linear momentum of a system of particles arises from interactions among the particles, leading to the principle of conservation of linear momentum (P). This principle states that the total linear momentum of the system, equal to the sum of the linear momenta of every individual particle, remains constant. If a system comprises n particles, the total linear momentum is given by the sum of the linear momenta of each particle.
Where:
- P = total linear momentum of the system
- mi = mass of the ith particle
- vi = velocity of the ith particle
For Example:
The linear momentum of the particle is:
P = mv
For ‘n’ no. of particles total linear momentum is,
P = P1 + P2 + P3 +….+ Pn
Each of momentum is written as
m1v1 + m2v2 +………..+ mnvn
We know that the velocity of the center of mass is:
MV = ∑mivi ,
So comparing these equations we get,
P = M V
Where M is the center of mass, and V is the velocity of its center of mass.
Linear Momentum – Definition, Formula, Examples
Linear Momentum is the physical property of a mass moving with a certain velocity in a straight line path. Linear momentum is given as the product of the mass of the object and the velocity with which it is moving. In the physical world, we can realize the significance of linear momentum from the fact that a heavier body with a higher velocity creates more destruction than a smaller body with the same velocity.
In this article, we will understand the meaning of linear momentum, the formula of linear momentum, linear momentum of a system of particles, and the law of conversion of linear momentum.
Table of Content
- What is Linear Momentum?
- Linear Momentum Formula
- Linear Momentum of a System of Particles
- Law of Conservation of Linear momentum