Force exerted over a small time and big time frame

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between force, impulse, and the rate of application when breaking materials like wood or glass. It is established that a fast impact generates a higher peak contact force due to the acceleration of the object, even though the total force required to break the material remains constant. The concept of impulse, defined as force times time, is crucial in understanding why a rapid application of force can lead to different outcomes compared to a slow, steady application. The key takeaway is that while the peak force is higher during a fast impact, the inherent breaking force of the material does not change.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Basic knowledge of impulse and momentum concepts
  • Familiarity with material properties, specifically tensile strength
  • Concept of peak contact force in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of Newton's laws of motion in detail
  • Study the concept of impulse and its applications in real-world scenarios
  • Explore material science focusing on tensile strength and impact resistance
  • Learn about peak contact force and its implications in physics experiments
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Physics students, material scientists, engineers, and anyone interested in the mechanics of force application and material failure.

Howlin
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Hi

Why is it that if you hit an object fast it requires less force to break it than if you hit the object slow and applied pressure to it?
 
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If you hit it fast, the forces are higher.
 
So you are saying if I hit a block of wood or glass really fast, it takes the same force to break it than if i use a force press and it slowly applies force to the block of wood or glass?
 
No, he said HIGHER.

However, it may take less impulse (force times time).
 
russ_watters said:
No, he said HIGHER.

However, it may take less impulse (force times time).

But why would it be higher, shouldn't it be just the same force required to break the boards or glass, no matter if it is hit fast or slow?
 
When you apply a force, the object moves - even when holding it rigidly, it bends. The faster you apply the force, the more of the force that is absorbed by the acceleration of the object.
 
Howlin said:
But why would it be higher, shouldn't it be just the same force required to break the boards or glass, no matter if it is hit fast or slow?
The peak contact force is higher not the force required to break .
 

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