1. What is Impact Force Calculation?

Definition: This calculator determines the force generated when a moving object impacts another object or surface.

Purpose: It helps engineers, physicists, and safety professionals analyze collisions and design protective systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( F \) — Impact force (Newtons, N)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kilograms, kg)
• \( v \) — Velocity at impact (meters/second, m/s)
• \( t \) — Impact duration (seconds, s)

Explanation: The product of mass and velocity gives momentum, which when divided by impact time yields the average force during impact.

3. Importance of Impact Force Calculation

Details: Understanding impact forces is crucial for vehicle safety design, sports equipment testing, construction safety, and accident reconstruction.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the object's mass in kg, impact velocity in m/s, and impact duration in seconds. All values must be positive (time > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if the object stops completely during impact?
A: The formula still applies as it calculates the average force during the deceleration period.

Q2: How do I determine impact time?
A: For common materials, typical values are 0.1s (car crash), 0.01s (sports impact), or 0.001s (hard surface impact).

Q3: Does this account for deformation or energy absorption?
A: Indirectly - longer impact times (from energy-absorbing materials) result in lower calculated forces.

Q4: Can I use this for vertical impacts (falls)?
A: Yes, use the velocity at impact (calculated from fall height: v = √(2gh)).

Q5: How does this relate to G-forces?
A: Divide the impact force by the object's weight (mg) to get G-force.