How does mass affect momentum?

Mass affects momentum directly; momentum is the product of an object's mass and its velocity.

In physics, momentum is a measure of the quantity of motion an object has and is given by the formula \( p = mv \), where \( p \) represents momentum, \( m \) is mass, and \( v \) is velocity. This means that if you increase the mass of an object while keeping its velocity constant, its momentum will increase proportionally. For example, if you double the mass of an object, its momentum will also double, provided its velocity remains unchanged.

To understand this better, imagine two cars travelling at the same speed. If one car is much heavier than the other, the heavier car will have more momentum. This is because the mass of the heavier car is greater, and since momentum is the product of mass and velocity, the greater mass results in greater momentum.

This relationship is crucial in various real-world scenarios. For instance, in road safety, understanding momentum helps explain why larger vehicles, like lorries, take longer to stop than smaller cars when brakes are applied. The larger mass of the lorry means it has more momentum, requiring more force and time to bring it to a halt.

In sports, athletes often use the concept of momentum to their advantage. A heavier rugby player running at the same speed as a lighter player will have more momentum, making it harder for opponents to tackle them.

In summary, mass is a key factor in determining an object's momentum. By analysing the relationship between mass and momentum, we can better understand and predict the behaviour of moving objects in various contexts.