Impulse Calculator

Physics overview

What is impulse?

Impulse measures the effect of a force acting over a period of time. A larger force or a longer time interval produces a greater impulse.

Formula

Impulse formula

• J is impulse in newton-seconds.
• F is average force in newtons.
• Δt is the time interval in seconds.

Worked example

A 120 N force acts for 0.5 s

1. Write the formula: J = FΔt.
2. Substitute the values: J = 120 × 0.5.
3. Calculate the impulse: J = 60 N·s.

Momentum relationship

Impulse equals change in momentum

An impulse changes an object's momentum. The same impulse can result from a large force acting briefly or a smaller force acting for longer.

Rearranged equations

Solve for force or time

Units

Standard SI units

Use newton-seconds for impulse, newtons for force, and seconds for time. One newton-second is equivalent to one kilogram-meter per second.

Real-world applications

Where impulse calculations are used

• Collisions and impact experiments.
• Sports involving balls, bats, or rackets.
• Vehicle safety systems and crumple zones.
• Laboratory momentum investigations.

Calculation limits

Important assumptions

• Impulse, force, and time interval must be greater than zero.
• The force value represents the average force over the interval.
• Time should be entered in seconds.
• The calculator uses magnitudes and does not represent vector direction.
• Units are not converted automatically.

Questions and answers

Impulse calculator FAQ