Calculadora de Momento Linear
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
Formula
p = m·v
About this calculator
The Linear Momentum Calculator computes the momentum of an object using the formula p = m·v, where p is momentum, m is mass, and v is velocity. Momentum is a vector quantity that describes the 'inertia in motion' of a body. The greater the mass or velocity, the greater the momentum.
This tool is useful for students and professionals in physics and engineering. You can use it to solve collision problems, such as determining momentum before and after an impact, or to analyze projectile motion. Simply enter the mass in kilograms and the velocity in meters per second.
Important precautions: ensure consistent units (kg and m/s). Momentum is a vector, but this calculator provides only its magnitude. In problems involving direction, you must consider vectors separately. Also, in isolated systems, total momentum is conserved, which is the basis for collision analysis.
Examples of use: calculate the momentum of a 1000 kg car at 20 m/s (p = 20000 kg·m/s) or a 0.5 kg ball at 10 m/s (p = 5 kg·m/s). The calculator can also be used to check if the momentum is sufficient to cause damage in impacts, such as in traffic accidents.
Frequently asked questions
What is linear momentum?
Linear momentum is the product of an object's mass and its velocity. It is a vector quantity that indicates how difficult it is to stop a moving object.
What is the unit of linear momentum?
The SI unit is kg·m/s (kilogram meter per second).
Is linear momentum conserved?
Yes, in an isolated system (no external forces), total linear momentum remains constant. This is the law of conservation of momentum.
Can I use this calculator for collisions?
Yes, it calculates the momentum of each object individually. To analyze collisions, you need to compute total momentum before and after, considering directions.
Does the calculator consider the direction of velocity?
No, it only provides the magnitude of momentum. For vector problems, you should input velocities with positive or negative signs according to direction.