FORM 4: 2.6 ANALYSING IMPULSE AND IMPULSIVE FORCE

THE MEANING OF IMPULSE

Impulse is defined as the product of impulsive force and time interval.

Impulse = Ft

F = impulsive force

t = time interval

Impulse is also equal to the change of momentum.

Impulse = mv – mu

mv = final momentum

mu = initial momentum

THE MEANING OF IMPULSIVE FORCE

The large force that acts over a short period of time during collisions and explosions is known as impulsive force.

Impulsive force can be defined as the rate of change of momentum in a collision or explosion.

SITUATION WHERE IMPULSIVE FORCE SHOULD BE REDUCED

A longer time of impact will result in a smaller impulsive force.

SITUATION WHERE IMPULSIVE FORCE IS BENEFICIAL

A shorter time of impact will produce a larger impulsive force.