Impulse Calculator Formula

Understand the math behind the impulse calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.

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Formulas Used

Impulse

impulse = force * time

Variables

VariableDescriptionDefault
forceAverage Force(N)100
timeTime Duration(s)0.5

How It Works

Impulse

Impulse is the product of a force and the time interval over which it acts, equal to the change in momentum.

Formula

J = F * delta_t = delta_p

This is the impulse-momentum theorem.

Worked Example

A bat exerts an average force of 100 N on a ball for 0.5 seconds.

force = 100time = 0.5
  1. 01J = F * t
  2. 02J = 100 * 0.5
  3. 03J = 50 N·s

Frequently Asked Questions

How is impulse related to momentum?

Impulse equals the change in momentum: J = delta_p = m * delta_v. This is the impulse-momentum theorem.

Why do airbags reduce injury?

Airbags increase the time of collision, reducing the average force while delivering the same impulse (same momentum change).

What are the units of impulse?

Newton-seconds (N·s), which are equivalent to kg·m/s, the same units as momentum.

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