Impulse Calculator

Impulse is the change in momentum of an object when a force acts on it over a period of time. It's measured in Newton-seconds (N·s) or kilogram-meters per second (kg·m/s), which are equivalent units. Impulse represents the effect of a force acting over time and is equal to the change in momentum.

Momentum (p = mv) is the quantity of motion an object has at any instant, while impulse (J) is the change in momentum over a time interval. Impulse causes a change in momentum - they're related by the impulse-momentum theorem: J = Δp. Momentum is a state, while impulse is a change in that state.

Airbags work by increasing the time over which the collision force acts. Since impulse (change in momentum) is constant in a collision, increasing time (Δt) decreases the average force (F = J/Δt). This reduces the peak force on passengers, minimizing injuries. The same principle applies to crumple zones in cars.

Yes, impulse can be negative, positive, or zero depending on the direction of the force or velocity change. A negative impulse indicates a force or momentum change in the opposite direction to your chosen positive direction. For example, when catching a ball, the impulse on the ball is negative (it slows down), while the impulse on your hand is positive.

In sports, impulse explains many techniques:FollowFollow-through in baseball increases contact time, maximizing impulse and ball speed. Bending knees when landing increases time, reducing impact force. Hitting a ball at its center maximizes impulse transfer. Understanding impulse helps athletes optimize their technique for better performance and injury prevention.

The impulse-momentum theorem states that the impulse on an object equals its change in momentum: J = Δp = m(vf - vi). This fundamental principle connects force, time, mass, and velocity. It's derived from Newton's second law and is crucial for analyzing collisions, explosions, and any situation involving forces acting over time.