Physics

Momentum Calculator

Calculate linear momentum and the force needed to stop it in a given time.

kg
m/s
Momentum
p = m · v, and impulse F·Δt = ΔpMasskgVelocitym/s

Why crumple zones exist

Stopping a car means removing all its momentum, and that quantity is fixed by mass and speed. What engineering can change is the time it takes: force equals momentum change divided by stopping time. Extending a collision from 0.1 s to 0.2 s halves the peak force on the occupants. Crumple zones, airbags and helmet foam all do exactly one thing — they buy time.

The formula

p = m · v, and impulse F·Δt = Δp

Every result on this page comes from this formula. Nothing is rounded until the final display, so figures match a spreadsheet to the cent.

How to use the Momentum Calculator

  1. Fill in each field with your own figures — the defaults are only there as an example.
  2. The result updates as you type, so there is no button to press.
  3. Check the breakdown under the main result for the supporting numbers.
  4. Use the copy button to take the result with you, or share the link to reload the same inputs.

Momentum Calculator — frequently asked questions

Is this momentum calculator free to use?

Yes. Every calculator on the site is free, needs no sign-up, and runs entirely in your browser, so your figures never leave your device.

How accurate is the result?

The maths is exact for the formula shown on the page. Accuracy in the real world depends on your inputs and on assumptions the formula cannot see, so treat the output as a well-grounded estimate rather than a quote.

Can I use it on my phone?

Yes. The page is responsive, weighs a few kilobytes and works offline once loaded, so it behaves the same on a phone as on a desktop.

What people search for

This page answers each of these searches. They are the exact phrases visitors use to find the momentum calculator.

  • momentum calculator
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  • p mv
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About this calculator

Written and reviewed by The Samsung Calculator editorial team. Every calculator is written against a published formula, reviewed against at least one independent reference implementation, and dated when it changes.

Last reviewed August 23, 2026 · Calculation runs client-side · No data collected · Report an error