1. What is Impulse?

Definition: Impulse is the change in momentum of an object when a force is applied over a time interval.

Purpose: It helps in understanding how forces affect the motion of objects over time, important in physics and engineering.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses two equivalent formulas:

Where:

• \( J \) — Impulse (N·s or kg·m/s)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kg)
• \( \Delta v \) — Change in velocity (m/s)
• \( F \) — Applied force (N)
• \( \Delta t \) — Time duration of force application (s)

Explanation: You can calculate impulse either by knowing the mass and velocity change, or by knowing the force and its duration.

3. Importance of Impulse Calculation

Details: Impulse calculations are crucial in collision analysis, rocket propulsion, sports physics, and vehicle safety design.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter either:

• Mass and velocity change, OR
• Force and time duration

The calculator will compute the impulse.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the units of impulse?
A: Impulse is measured in Newton-seconds (N·s) or kilogram-meters per second (kg·m/s).

Q2: How is impulse related to momentum?
A: Impulse equals the change in momentum (J = Δp).

Q3: Why are there two formulas for impulse?
A: They represent two ways to calculate the same quantity - through momentum change or through force application.

Q4: Can I use this for rotational motion?
A: No, this is for linear motion. Rotational impulse uses different formulas involving torque and angular momentum.

Q5: What's a practical example of impulse?
A: Airbags increase the time of impact (Δt) during a collision, reducing the force (F) needed to stop the passenger (same impulse).