The relation between impulse and momentum

AI Thread Summary
Impulse, defined as I=FΔt, is equal to the change in momentum (ΔP) because a net force applied over time results in acceleration and a corresponding change in velocity. The relationship holds true for both constant and varying forces, as the impulse can be calculated through integration of force over time. A longer application of force leads to a greater change in momentum, while a smaller force applied for an extended period can produce the same change as a larger force applied briefly. Understanding these concepts is crucial for grasping the fundamentals of physics. The discussion emphasizes the importance of units related to impulse and momentum in different systems.
greg_rack
Gold Member
Messages
361
Reaction score
79
I get that the impulse is I=FΔt, but why is it even equal to change in momentum caused by the force under consideration?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
$$\vec{I} = \int_{t_1}^{t_2} \vec{F} dt = \int_{t_1}^{t_2} \frac{d\vec{P}}{dt} dt = \vec{P}(t_2) - \vec{P}(t_1) = \Delta \vec{P}$$##\vec{F}## is the net force on the particle or extended body.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • Like
Likes vanhees71 and Dale
etotheipi said:
$$I = \int_{t_1}^{t_2} \vec{F} \cdot dt = \int_{t_1}^{t_2} \frac{d\vec{P}}{dt} dt = \vec{P}(t_2) - \vec{P}(t_1) = \Delta \vec{P}$$##\vec{F}## is the net force on the particle or extended body.
I still haven't studied integrals... 😅
 
For constant ##\vec{F}##,$$\vec{I} = \vec{F} \Delta t = \frac{d\vec{P}}{dt} \Delta t = \Delta \vec{P}$$
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • Like
Likes vanhees71
etotheipi said:
For constant ##\vec{F}##,$$I = \vec{F} \Delta t = \frac{d\vec{P}}{dt} \Delta t = \Delta \vec{P}$$
Thank you so much, now it's clear!
 
  • Like
Likes vanhees71
greg_rack said:
Summary:: I've studied momentum and impulse a long time ago, don't judge the silliness of this question

I get that the impulse is I=FΔt, but why is it even equal to change in momentum caused by the force under consideration?
Please, see:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Impulse_(physics)

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Momentum

"A resultant force causes acceleration and a change in the velocity of the body for as long as it acts. A resultant force applied over a longer time therefore produces a bigger change in linear momentum than the same force applied briefly: the change in momentum is equal to the product of the average force and duration. Conversely, a small force applied for a long time produces the same change in momentum—the same impulse—as a larger force applied briefly."
 
  • Like
Likes etotheipi
Lnewqban said:
Please, see:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Impulse_(physics)

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Momentum

"A resultant force causes acceleration and a change in the velocity of the body for as long as it acts. A resultant force applied over a longer time therefore produces a bigger change in linear momentum than the same force applied briefly: the change in momentum is equal to the product of the average force and duration. Conversely, a small force applied for a long time produces the same change in momentum—the same impulse—as a larger force applied briefly."
Really exhaustive explanation, thank you!
 
  • Like
Likes Lnewqban
You are welcome. :smile:
These basic concepts are very important.
Note units related to impulse and momentum in each system.
 
  • Like
Likes etotheipi
Back
Top