DIY Cost Tools
Momentum Calculator
SCIENCE CALCULATOR
Calculate an object’s initial and final momentum, momentum change, impulse, and final kinetic energy from mass and velocity.
How it works
Linear momentum equals mass times velocity and includes direction through the velocity sign. Change in momentum equals impulse. Kinetic energy depends on velocity squared.
Formulas
Momentum p = mv
Impulse J = Δp = m(v₂ − v₁)
Kinetic energy KE = ½mv₂²
Example
A 1,500 kg object accelerating from rest to 20 m/s has final momentum 30,000 kg·m/s, impulse 30,000 N·s, and final kinetic energy 300,000 J.
Important limits
- This classical calculation is not suitable for speeds approaching the speed of light.
- Use positive and negative velocities to represent a chosen one-dimensional direction.
- Momentum is a vector; this calculator handles one dimension only.
Frequently asked questions
Why can momentum be negative?
The sign represents direction relative to the axis you chose.
Are impulse and momentum the same unit?
Yes. A newton-second is equivalent to a kilogram-meter per second.
Review notes
Results use standard classical mechanics equations for one-dimensional motion. Last reviewed September 30, 2026.