Impulse (physics) In classical mechanics, impulse (symbolized by J or Imp[1]) is the product of a force, F, and the time, t, for which it acts. The impulse of a force acting for a given time interval is equal to the change in linear momentum produced over that interval.[2] Impulse is a vector quantity since it is the result of integrating force, a vector quantity, over time. The SI unit of impulse is the newton second (N·s) or, in base units, the kilogram meter per second (kg·m/s). A resultant force causes acceleration and a change in the velocity of the body for as long as it acts. A resultant force applied over a longer time therefore produces a bigger change in linear momentum than the same force applied briefly: the change in momentum is equal to the product of the average force and duration. Conversely, a small force applied for a long time produces the same change in momentum—the same impulse—as a larger force applied briefly. J = F_{average} (t_2 - t_1) The impulse is the integral of the resultant force (F) with respect to time: J = \int F dt
Posted on: Thu, 14 Aug 2014 02:32:00 +0000
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