Impulse Formula:
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Definition: This calculator computes the impulse (J) based on an object's mass and its change in velocity.
Purpose: It helps physics students and engineers determine the impulse applied to an object when its velocity changes.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The mass is multiplied by the velocity change to determine the impulse applied to the object.
Details: Impulse is crucial in understanding collisions, rocket propulsion, and any situation where forces act over time to change an object's motion.
Tips: Enter the mass in kilograms and velocity change in meters/second. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What units does impulse use?
A: Impulse is measured in Newton-seconds (N s), which is equivalent to kg·m/s.
Q2: How is impulse related to momentum?
A: Impulse equals the change in momentum (J = Δp), making this formula fundamental in physics.
Q3: Can velocity change be negative?
A: While the calculator uses absolute values, in physics Δv can be negative indicating direction change.
Q4: What's a typical impulse value?
A: Values vary widely - from small impulses like a ping pong ball hit (0.01 N s) to car crashes (thousands of N s).
Q5: How does this relate to force?
A: Impulse is force multiplied by time (J = FΔt), showing how force duration affects motion.