Average Force Formula - Solving for Force

In summary, the formula for average force is the change in momentum divided by the change in time. In the given scenario, the impulse-momentum theorem can be used to solve for the average force that stops the bullet. The teacher provided the correct answer of -1.2 x 10^3N. The formula for impulse is F*delta t, and the change in momentum is final momentum minus initial momentum. In this case, the average force would be rounded to 1.2x10^3N.
  • #1
wyclefchick
9
0
[SOLVED] Formula for average force?

In a ballistics test at the police department, Officer Rios fires a 6.0 g bullet at 350 m/s into a container that stops it in 1.8 ms. What is the average force that stops the bullet?

can anyone help me to do this? or just give me the formula? The teacher gave us the right answer and it's -1.2 x 10^3N
 
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  • #2
The average force is the change in momentum divided by the change in time.
 
  • #3
This is just an impulse-momentum theorem problem. Impulse = Change in momentum. Impulse is F*delta t (t=time of impact) and change in momentum is just final momentum - initial momentum. Good luck
 
  • #4
delta p= J
and J= F(delta t)

so

delta p=6.0g(350m/s)
delta p=2100
2100/1.8=1166.6666667

is that the same thing as 1.2x10^3?
 
  • #5
wyclefchick said:
delta p= J
and J= F(delta t)

so

delta p=6.0g(350m/s)
delta p=2100
2100/1.8=1166.6666667

is that the same thing as 1.2x10^3?

It would be rounded to 1.2x10^3, yes.
 
  • #6
thank you so much guys!
 
  • #7
wyclefchick said:
thank you so much guys!

You're welcome (I'll speak on behalf of the people that actually helped you! :smile:)
 

What is the formula for average force?

The formula for average force is: F = m x a, where F is the force, m is the mass, and a is the acceleration.

How do you calculate average force?

To calculate average force, you need to divide the total force by the total time. The formula is: Favg = ∑F / ∑t, where Favg is the average force, ∑F is the sum of all the forces, and ∑t is the sum of all the time intervals.

What is the unit of average force?

The unit of average force is Newtons (N). This is a derived unit in the International System of Units (SI) and is equivalent to 1 kg*m/s^2.

Can the average force be negative?

Yes, the average force can be negative. This means that the direction of the force is opposite to the direction of motion. For example, if an object is slowing down, the average force acting on it will be negative.

Why is average force important?

Average force is important because it helps us understand the overall impact of a force on an object. It takes into account both the magnitude and direction of the force and can be used to analyze motion and predict future behavior of objects.

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