How to Calculate Conservation of Momentum in Collisions and Rockets

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This educational video provides a clear, mathematically rigorous introduction to the Conservation of Momentum, a fundamental principle in physics. Starting with an engaging hook about unrealistic "movie physics" where recoil is ignored, the instructor defines momentum as a conserved vector quantity. The video transitions into detailed problem-solving demonstrations, showing students how to set up and solve algebraic equations for both collision and propulsion scenarios. The content is divided into three main sections: a review of momentum properties, applications to collisions (using pool balls), and applications to propulsion (using rockets). The instructor carefully guides viewers through the math, emphasizing the importance of significant figures and directional signs (positive vs. negative velocity). Visual demonstrations, including a Newton's Cradle and a slow-motion water bottle rocket launch, help ground the abstract math in physical reality. This resource is highly valuable for high school physics classrooms as it bridges the gap between conceptual understanding and mathematical application. It effectively models problem-solving strategies, explicitly showing every step of the algebraic manipulation. Teachers can use this video to introduce the topic, reinforce lecture material, or as a flipped classroom resource where students learn the calculation methods at home before doing labs in class.