Impulse vs Force
Impulse is an important concept in the study of collisions in physics and is described as change in momentum of a body which is in effect a product of its mass and the difference in its initial and final velocity. Now momentum of a moving body is given, according to Newton’s laws of motion as a product of its mass and velocity.
Hence Impulse = m (v1- v2)
Now, we also know that F = m X a = ma
Where a is acceleration which is the rate of change of velocity of a moving body
Thus F = m (v1- v2)/t
Or, F X t = Ft = m (v1- v2)
Hence, F X t = Ft = Impulse
When we apply a force to a body for a small period of time, it creates an impulse known as impulse of the force. When a force is applied to a body, time passes and this time leads to creation of impulse. When a boy hits a tennis ball with his racket, the ball is in contact with the racket for some time thus generating an impulse. The racket hits the ball, it applies a force on the ball for a short time period thus giving an impulse to the ball.
So, when we take into account the duration for which a force is applied on a body, we get an important property called impulse of the force which is the product of force and the time for which it is being applied. Thus the effect of a force is not just the amount of the force but also dependent upon the duration for which it is being applied. Thus impulse is a result of a force being applied for time duration on a body.
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In brief: Impulse vs Force • According to Newton’s laws of motion, force is equal to mass into acceleration. Now acceleration is the rate of change of velocity. • Hence F = m (v1- v2)/t • Or, F . t = change in momentum • This is called impulse which is the product of force and the duration for which it is applied.
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Related Links:
1. Difference Between Momentum and Energy
2. Difference Between Momentum and Impulse
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