Question about the average force?

In summary, the average force is the total force exerted on an object over a certain period of time, divided by the duration of that period. To calculate average force, you divide the total force by the duration of time over which the force was exerted. Average force is the overall effect of all the forces acting on an object over a period of time, while instantaneous force is the force exerted on an object at a specific moment in time. Average force is important because it helps us understand the overall effect of all the forces acting on an object and is crucial in many areas of science. Average force can be negative, meaning that the overall effect of the forces acting on an object is in the opposite direction of the object's motion.
  • #1
zeromodz
246
0
Okay we all know that the average force equation is

ΔP = FΔT
F = ΔP / ΔT


Say I throw a ball at the wall and it has and the collision is elastic. Therefore, the initial momentum equals the final momentum and therefore.

ΔP = 0

I still know that there is a force exerted on the wall, but how do I find it if ΔP = 0?
 
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  • #2
Don't forget that momentum is a vector quantity. So if it hits the wall with momentum magnitude P, the change in momentum is 2*P , to account for the reverse in direction.

Hope this helps,

Simon
 

What is the definition of average force?

The average force is the total force exerted on an object over a certain period of time, divided by the duration of that period. It is a measure of the overall effect of all the forces acting on an object.

How do you calculate average force?

To calculate average force, you divide the total force by the duration of time over which the force was exerted. This can be represented by the equation Favg = ∆p/∆t, where Favg is average force, ∆p is the change in momentum, and ∆t is the change in time.

What is the difference between average force and instantaneous force?

Average force is the overall effect of all the forces acting on an object over a period of time, while instantaneous force is the force exerted on an object at a specific moment in time. Average force takes into account the duration of time, while instantaneous force does not.

Why is average force important?

Average force is important because it helps us understand the overall effect of all the forces acting on an object. It allows us to calculate the change in momentum and predict the motion of an object. It is also a crucial concept in many areas of science, such as physics and engineering.

Can average force be negative?

Yes, average force can be negative. This means that the overall effect of the forces acting on an object is in the opposite direction of the object's motion. It is important to note that even though the average force may be negative, it does not necessarily mean that the object is moving backwards. It could also mean that the object is slowing down or changing direction.

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