For solving math and science word problems, it is helpful to follow a careful process:

LIST: Read the question and make a list of the important information.
DIAGRAM: drawing a diagram of the situation may help you to understand the problem more clearly.
EQUATION: Choose the appropriate equation(s) that you will need to solve the problem.
SOLVE: replace the variables in the equation with known values from your list. Solve for the unknown.
CHECK: Check to see that your answer makes sense.

A 4000 kg truck travels in a straight line at 10.0 m/s. What is its momentum?

LIST:

DIAGRAM:

EQUATION:

p = mv

SOLVE:

p = 4000(10)

p = 40,000kg·m/s

CHECK:

Answer is positive, and large, as expected.

Chemistry 9