<p align="right">Last Update: <font color="#4f81bd">November 25, 2024</font></p> ## BIG IDEAS >[!note] Definition > Impulse is the product of the average force applied to an object and the time duration over which it is applied. ### Symbol $\vec{J}$ ### Formula The change in momentum of an object when a force is applied over a period of time. $J \ = \ \Delta p \ = \ F\Delta{t}$ ### SI Unit $N \cdot s$ > [!NOTE] > The unit $N \cdot s$ is equivalent the $kg m/s$ ### Impulse-Momentum Theorem The impulse experienced by an object is equal to the change in its [[momentum]]. This relationship is expressed mathematically as $\vec{J} = \Delta \vec{p}$, where $\vec{J}$ is the impulse, and $\Delta \vec{p}$​ is the change in momentum. This theorem helps in analyzing situations where forces act over short time intervals. >[!tip] Boxer >If a boxer increases the time a punch is on the opponent's body, the force experienced by the opponent decreases because the same change in momentum (impulse) is spread over a longer period. ### Related Topics --- [[Home|Home]] | [[Momentum]] | [[Notes Vault/Physics Notes Vault/Quantity of Motion/Momentum/Impulse|Impulse]] | [[Notes Vault/Physics Notes Vault/Quantity of Motion/Momentum/Collisions|Collisions]] | [[Conservation Laws]]