Calculating Impulse in a Collision

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In summary, the impulse that acted on the 26 kg object before a collision can be found by calculating the change in velocity (vf - vi) and multiplying it by the mass (26 kg). For part a), the impulse is 52 N*s, and for part b), the impulse is 468 N*s. It is important to correctly identify the initial and final velocities when using the impulse equation.
  • #1
itsmarasilly
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Homework Statement



Before a collision, a 26 kg object is moving at +10 m/s. Find the impulse that acted on the object if, after the collision, it moved at the following velocities.

a) +8.0 m/s
b) -8.0 m/s


Homework Equations



Impulse = change in momentum
= mass * change in velocity
= m * (vf - vi)

The Attempt at a Solution



a) = 26 (+10 m/s - +8.0 m/s), impulse = 52?
b) = 26 (+10 m/s - -8.0 m/s), impulse = 468?
 
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  • #2
Hi itsmarasilly,

itsmarasilly said:

Homework Equations



Impulse = change in momentum
= mass * change in velocity
= m * (vf - vi)

The Attempt at a Solution



a) = 26 (+10 m/s - +8.0 m/s), impulse = 52?
b) = 26 (+10 m/s - -8.0 m/s), impulse = 468?


If you compare these to the last equation in your "Relevant equations" section, it looks like you have the initial and final velocities switched.
 
  • #3
oh okay, got it. thanks! :)
 

1. How is impulse defined in physics?

Impulse is defined as the change in momentum of an object over a given period of time. It is represented by the equation I = F * Δt, where I is impulse, F is the force applied, and Δt is the time interval.

2. How do you calculate impulse?

To calculate impulse, you need to know the force applied and the time interval during which the force was applied. You can use the equation I = F * Δt to find the impulse. The unit of impulse is kilogram-meter per second (kg⋅m/s).

3. What is the difference between impulse and force?

Force is a measure of how much an object is pushed or pulled, while impulse is a measure of the change in momentum of an object. While force is a vector quantity, impulse is a scalar quantity. Force is exerted on an object, whereas impulse is experienced by an object.

4. How is impulse related to momentum?

Impulse and momentum are closely related, as impulse is defined as the change in momentum of an object. The greater the impulse, the greater the change in momentum. Therefore, impulse can be seen as a measure of how much momentum is added or taken away from an object.

5. Can impulse be negative?

Yes, impulse can be negative. This happens when the force applied is in the opposite direction of the object's initial velocity. In this case, the impulse would result in a decrease in the object's momentum, and the value of impulse would be negative.

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