Impulse in physics refers to the change in momentum of an object caused by a force acting on it over a certain time interval.
Imagine momentum as the amount of "motion" an object carries. It depends on both the object's mass and its velocity. Impulse is what alters this momentum.
The greater the force applied to an object and the longer the duration it acts, the larger the impulse. A short, strong push can have the same effect as a long, gentle push in terms of impulse.
Impulse is symbolized by J and is calculated by multiplying the force (F) by the time interval (Δt) that the force acts: J = FΔt. The SI unit of impulse is Newton-second (N⋅s).
Impulse is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. The direction of the impulse is the same as the direction of the applied force.
Imagine you're kicking a soccer ball. What will create a greater impulse on the ball?
A strong kick for a short time.
A strong kick for a longer time.
both create the same impact.
An astronaut in space throws a wrench. Because there is no air resistance, the wrench will:
Keep moving in a straight line forever.
Eventually, slow down and stop.
If F * T = Impulse (Change in momentum)
Imagine a scenario
F= 10N and T = 1sec 10N * 1sec = 10kg m/s
F= 1N and T= 10sec
1N*10sec = 10kg m/s
which means either way, the impact can be the same but if the force is 10N and the time increases, then it will have the greatest impact. 10N * 10sec = 100kg m/s (or 100 newton seconds)