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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Linear Momentum and Angular Momentum?

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The main difference between linear momentum and angular momentum lies in the type of motion they describe:

  • Linear Momentum: This is the inertia of an object in translation motion, defined as the mass (m) of an object multiplied by its velocity (v), represented by the formula p = m*v. Linear momentum deals with objects moving in a straight line or curved path.
  • Angular Momentum: This is the inertia of a body in rotation or circular motion. Unlike linear momentum, angular momentum is related to the distance (r) of the object from a rotation axis multiplied by its linear momentum. The formula for angular momentum (L) is L = r*p or L = mvr. Angular momentum is conserved if there is no external torque applied to the system, similar to the conservation of linear momentum when no external force is present.

In summary, linear momentum describes the motion of objects moving in a straight line or curved path, while angular momentum describes the motion of objects rotating or in circular motion. Both momenta are conserved in the absence of external forces or torques, respectively.

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  • What is the Difference Between Linear Momentum and Angular Momentum?
  • Comparative Table: Linear Momentum vs Angular Momentum

    • Comparative Table: Linear Momentum vs Angular Momentum

    Here is a table comparing linear momentum and angular momentum:

    Feature Linear Momentum Angular Momentum
    Definition Linear momentum is the product of an object's mass and its linear velocity, representing the force required to stop the object from moving in a straight line. Angular momentum is the product of an object's moment of inertia and its angular velocity, representing the torque required to stop the object from rotating or moving in a circular motion.
    Unit Newton meters (N·m) Kilogram meters squared per second (kg·m²/s).
    Dimensions Mass × Velocity Moment of Inertia × Angular Velocity
    Applications Linear momentum is used in various fields, such as sports, car crashes, and projectile motion, to analyze and predict the motion of objects. Angular momentum is used in various fields, such as physics, engineering, and astronomy, to analyze and predict the motion of rotating or circular systems.
    Examples A baseball pitcher throws a fastball, and the linear momentum of the ball is determined by its mass and velocity. A figure skater performing a spin, and the angular momentum of the skater is determined by their spin rate and moment of inertia (a measure of the body's resistance to rotational motion).

    In summary, linear momentum is related to an object's straight-line motion, while angular momentum is related to its rotational motion.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.