In introductory mechanics, linear momentum is defined as $p=mv$. Momentum is the product of an object's speed and what quantity?

• A. Its acceleration
• B. Its kinetic energy
• C. Its mass
• D. The net force acting on it

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the definition of linear momentum, which is given by the formula \(p = m \times v\), where \(p\) is momentum, \(m\) is mass, and \(v\) is velocity.
2. Understand that momentum depends on two quantities: the object's velocity (speed with direction) and another physical property of the object.
3. Identify that velocity is already part of the formula, so the other quantity must be the object's mass, which measures how much matter the object contains.
4. Recognize that acceleration, kinetic energy, and net force are related to motion and forces but are not directly multiplied by velocity to give momentum.
5. Conclude that momentum is the product of an object's velocity and its mass.