When looking at momentum in different directions, it really helps to break it down into smaller parts. Here’s how I do it:
Break It Down: Start by dividing momentum into its parts, which usually follow the x, y, and z axes.
Vector Representation: Momentum can be thought of as a vector. It’s shown like this: p = m × v. Here, m is the mass and v is the velocity (how fast something is moving in a certain direction).
Component Form: In 2D (two dimensions), I use:
p_x = m × v_x
p_y = m × v_y
In 3D (three dimensions), I add:
p_z = m × v_z.
Using these parts makes it much easier to understand what happens during collisions and how things move!
When looking at momentum in different directions, it really helps to break it down into smaller parts. Here’s how I do it:
Break It Down: Start by dividing momentum into its parts, which usually follow the x, y, and z axes.
Vector Representation: Momentum can be thought of as a vector. It’s shown like this: p = m × v. Here, m is the mass and v is the velocity (how fast something is moving in a certain direction).
Component Form: In 2D (two dimensions), I use:
p_x = m × v_x
p_y = m × v_y
In 3D (three dimensions), I add:
p_z = m × v_z.
Using these parts makes it much easier to understand what happens during collisions and how things move!