Impulse

Question 1

what is impulse?

Answer 1

A change in momentum or a given force for a certain amount of time.

Question 2

Explain how the impulse equation can be derived from F = ma

Answer 2

F = ma ( or F = m x Πv/t) → F. t = mΠv

Impulse is equal to change momentum.

Impulse is equal to force x time.

Question 3

What is the impulse equation?

Answer 3

F x t = m x Πv

Question 4

Give some examples where people try to reduced the force experienced during a collision.

Answer 4

• Boxer moves backward as he gets punched to increase the time the punch lasts in order to reduce the force he experiences.
• Tennis player will try to keep racket in tact with the ball for as long as possible to increase impulse that it experiences and hence greater change in velocity.
• Cars have crumple zones so a car crash lasts longer and the force experienced is reduced.