What is the Difference Between Impulse and Force?

The difference between impulse and force lies in their definitions, units, and how they are applied. Here are the key differences:

1. Definition: Impulse is the change in momentum of a body due to a force acting upon it for a certain period of time, while force is an interaction that tends to change the motion of an object.
2. Units: Impulse has units of momentum, which is mass times velocity (kg * m/s), while force has units of mass * acceleration (kg * m/s²).
3. Application: Impulse is often used in the study of collisions and is the product of force and the time it is applied for, represented as $$J = F*t$$. Force, on the other hand, is applied to an object and causes it to change its velocity, accelerate, or both.
4. Relationship: Impulse is related to force and time, as it is the product of force and the time it is applied for. Force, however, is related to acceleration and mass, as it is calculated using the formula $$F = m * a$$.

In summary, impulse is the change in momentum resulting from a force being applied for a specific duration, while force is an interaction that causes an object to change its motion. Impulse is often used in studying collisions and is the product of force and time, whereas force is used to calculate the change in velocity or acceleration of an object.

Comparative Table: Impulse vs Force

Here is a table comparing the differences between impulse and force:

In summary, impulse is the product of force and time, and it is useful for instantaneous changes and collisions. On the other hand, force is the product of mass and acceleration, and it is used to describe the effect of continuous interactions.