4.3.2—Momentum

Impulse J=∫Fdt equals change in momentum Δp. For a constant force, J=FΔt; for a varying force, use the signed area under the force–time graph.

Choose the positive direction and distinguish peak force from average force. The impulse includes direction and can be negative.

A triangular force pulse of base 0.20 s and height 50 N gives impulse 5 N s.

A large peak force over a very short time may give less impulse than a smaller sustained force; peak force is not momentum change.