Momentum Calculator
Momentum calculator: p = m·v. Find linear momentum, mass or velocity in kg·m/s, used for collisions and impulse.
p = m · v
How to use this calculator
- Choose the quantity you want under “Solve for”.
- Type the known values and pick their units: any combination works.
- The result updates as you type. Open “Show the steps” to see the substitution.
Linear momentum is mass times velocity, p = m·v. It is a vector: it points in the direction of motion.
In a closed system total momentum is conserved, which lets you solve collisions. The change in momentum equals the impulse F·Δt.
Formula
p = m · v
| Symbol | Quantity | Units |
|---|---|---|
| m | Mass | kg, g, mg, µg, t, lb, oz, st, US ton, ct, Da |
| v | Velocity | m/s, km/h, mph, kn, ft/s, c |
| p | Momentum | kg·m/s, N·s, g·cm/s |
Worked example
Given: m = 0.145 kg · v = 40 m/s
p = m · v
Result: p = 5.8 kg·m/s
Frequently asked questions
What is the momentum of a 145 g baseball at 40 m/s?
p = 0.145 × 40 = 5.8 kg·m/s.
How are momentum and kinetic energy related?
Ek = p²/(2m).