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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Momentum and Impulse?

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Momentum and impulse are related concepts in physics, but they have distinct differences:

  • Momentum is the product of an object's mass and velocity, representing its resistance to stopping. It is represented by the symbol p and has an SI unit of kg·m/s. Momentum can be calculated using the formula: p = mv, where p is momentum, m is mass, and v is velocity.
  • Impulse is the product of the average net force and the time interval. It quantifies the effect of force applied on an object and the length of time the force was applied. Impulse is represented by the symbol J and has an SI unit of Newton-seconds (N·s) or kg·m/s. Impulse can be calculated using the formula: J = F·Δt, where J is impulse, F is force, and Δt is the time interval.

In summary, momentum is a measure of an object's resistance to stopping, while impulse is a measure of the overall effect of a force acting over time. An object's change in momentum is equal to its impulse.

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  • What is the Difference Between Momentum and Impulse?
  • Comparative Table: Momentum vs Impulse

    • Comparative Table: Momentum vs Impulse

    Here is a table that highlights the differences between momentum and impulse:

    Feature Momentum Impulse
    Definition Momentum is a measure of an object's resistance to stopping, and it is the product of an object's mass and velocity. Impulse is the force experienced by an object over a period of time, and it is the change in momentum produced by a force acting on an object.
    Symbol p J
    SI Unit kg m/s or Kilogram meter per second Newton-seconds (Ns) or kg m/s
    Formula $$p = m \times v$$ $$J = F \times \Delta t$$
    Direction Momentum is a vector quantity, having both magnitude and direction. Impulse is a scalar quantity, having only magnitude.
    Relation Momentum depends on an object's mass and velocity. Impulse is the product of force and time, and it is equal to the change in momentum.

    In summary, momentum is a measure of an object's resistance to stopping and is determined by its mass and velocity. On the other hand, impulse is the force experienced by an object over a period of time, and it is the change in momentum produced by a force acting on an object.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.