Module 5: Impulse and Momentum

When Isaac Newton wrote about motion, he didn’t actually talk about forces and acceleration, but instead talked in terms of impulse and momentum.  Impulse and momentum provide us with a valuable and powerful way to analyze interactions between objects because momentum is always conserved.

In this module, we will define impulse and momentum and learn how to calculate them.  We will then take a look at Newton’s Third Law, that deals with action-reaction forces, to prepare us to analyze interactions in terms of conservation of momentum.

Pre-Assessment:

You’ve often heard the word momentum.  Before learning what it means in physics, we’ll take a look at how it is used outside of physics.  Perform a news search on the word “momentum” and see what comes up.  Read several news articles and create a definition of momentum based on how the authors use the word in context of the news.  Post your definition on the discussion board.  Also, comment on how you think momentum might apply to physics.

Make your initial post, then return to the discussion board several times over the next few days to read your classmates’ posts. Reply to at least two of them, being sure to offer new insights, ask questions, and encourage further conversation.

Key Vocabulary:

To view the definitions for these key vocabulary terms, visit the course glossary.