Lectures on Physics has been derived from Benjamin Crowell's Light and Matter series of free introductory textbooks on physics. See the editorial for more information....

Calculations with the momentum vector

The following example illustrates how a force is required to change the direction of the momentum vector, just as one would be required to change its magnitude.

A turbine

Discussion Question

A A The figures show a jet of water striking two different objects. How does the total downward force compare in the two cases? How could this fact be used to create a better waterwheel? (Such a waterwheel is known as a Pelton wheel.)




Last Update: 2009-06-21