A \( 1,800 \mathrm{~kg} \) car is traveling at \( 20.0 \mathrm{~m} / \mathrm{s} \) NORTHEAST. The momentum of the car is

To find the momentum of the car, we use the formula: \[ \text{Momentum} = \text{mass} \times \text{velocity} \] Here, the mass of the car is \( 1,800 \, \text{kg} \) and the velocity is \( 20.0 \, \text{m/s} \) to the northeast. Calculating the momentum, we have: \[ \text{Momentum} = 1,800 \, \text{kg} \times 20.0 \, \text{m/s} = 36,000 \, \text{kg} \cdot \text{m/s} \] Since the direction is northeast, the momentum vector can be represented as \( 36,000 \, \text{kg} \cdot \text{m/s} \) at a \( 45^\circ \) angle from the north or east axis. This gives the car a significant momentum due to its mass and speed, influencing how it navigates through its environment. Understanding momentum is crucial! In vehicle safety, for instance, knowing how much momentum a car has helps in designing safer crash barriers and better road safety measures. It affects how quickly a car can be brought to a stop and the forces during a collision, ultimately influencing how injuries can be minimized during accidents. So, the next time you buckle up, think about that momentum soaring through the streets.