Understanding Momentum

Momentum (p) is a measure of an object's mass in motion. It's calculated by:

* p = m * v

Where:

* p is momentum (kg-m/s)

* m is mass (kg)

* v is velocity (m/s)

Solving for Velocity

1. Rearrange the formula: To find velocity, we need to isolate 'v':

* v = p / m

2. Plug in the values:

* v = 20000 kg-m/s / 500 kg

3. Calculate:

* v = 40 m/s

Answer: The magnitude of the spaceship's velocity is 40 m/s to the left.