1. What is Impulse?

Impulse is a vector quantity that measures the change in momentum of an object when a force is applied over a time interval. It equals the product of mass and the change in velocity (final velocity minus initial velocity).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the impulse-momentum theorem:

Where:

• \( \vec{I} \) — Impulse vector (kg m/s)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kg)
• \( \vec{v_f} \) — Final velocity vector (m/s)
• \( \vec{v_i} \) — Initial velocity vector (m/s)

Explanation: The calculator computes the vector difference between final and initial velocities, then multiplies by mass to get impulse.

3. Importance of Impulse Calculation

Details: Impulse is crucial in analyzing collisions, rocket propulsion, sports mechanics, and any scenario where forces act over time to change motion.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kg and velocity components in m/s. For 2D problems, set Z-components to zero. All values must be valid (mass > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is impulse different from momentum?
A: Momentum is mass times velocity (p = mv), while impulse is the change in momentum (I = Δp = mΔv).

Q2: What are typical units for impulse?
A: The SI unit is kg·m/s, which is equivalent to N·s (Newton-seconds).

Q3: Can impulse be negative?
A: Yes, impulse components can be negative, indicating direction opposite to the positive coordinate axis.

Q4: How does impulse relate to force?
A: Impulse equals the integral of force over time (I = ∫F dt). For constant force, I = F × Δt.

Q5: Why use vector components?
A: Vector components allow precise calculation in 3D space, accounting for direction in each dimension.