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Angular Momentum: AP Physics Definition

Ann Howell

Written by: Ann Howell

Reviewed by: Dan Mitchell-Garnett

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In AP® Physics, angular momentum is the rotational equivalent of linear momentum. The magnitude of the angular momentum of a rigid system about a specific axis can be described by the equation:

L space equals space I omega

Where:

  • L = angular momentum, in kg times straight m squared divided by straight s

  • I = rotational inertia, in kg times straight m squared

  • omega = angular velocity, in rad divided by straight s

Objects traveling in a straight line can possess both linear and angular momentum. The magnitude of this angular momentum depends on the particle's position relative to an axis of rotation. When a particle moves on a line relative to the axis, it will cause rotation and therefore has angular momentum. When a particle moves on a line that passes through the axis, it will not cause rotation and therefore has zero angular momentum.

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Ann Howell

Author: Ann Howell

Expertise: Physics Content Creator

Ann obtained her Maths and Physics degree from the University of Bath before completing her PGCE in Science and Maths teaching. She spent ten years teaching Maths and Physics to wonderful students from all around the world whilst living in China, Ethiopia and Nepal. Now based in beautiful Devon she is thrilled to be creating awesome Physics resources to make Physics more accessible and understandable for all students, no matter their schooling or background.

Dan Mitchell-Garnett

Author: Dan Mitchell-Garnett

Expertise: Physics Content Creator

Dan graduated with a First-class Masters degree in Physics at Durham University, specialising in cell membrane biophysics. After being awarded an Institute of Physics Teacher Training Scholarship, Dan taught physics in secondary schools in the North of England before moving to Save My Exams. Here, he carries on his passion for writing challenging physics questions and helping young people learn to love physics.

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