Impulse and Momentum Calculator
Connect constant force over time to momentum and velocity change.
Relate a force-time interval to momentum
Impulse is the integral of force over time and equals change in linear momentum. For constant force, that integral reduces to force times duration. This calculator adds signed impulse to initial momentum and divides the change by mass to report velocity change. It helps interpret collision force estimates, thrust intervals, sports impacts, and introductory impulse-momentum problems.
A constant 50 newton force acting for 0.2 second creates 10 newton-seconds of impulse. Starting from momentum 3 kilogram-meters per second, final momentum becomes 13. With mass two kilograms, velocity changes by 5 meters per second. Negative force reverses the impulse sign, so the same inputs can model braking along a chosen one-dimensional axis.
Preserve direction with signed quantities
The force is assumed constant and collinear with the stated momentum. Varying forces require the area under a force-time curve, and multidimensional motion requires vector components. The model does not calculate deformation or peak impact force from energy alone. Values are processed in your browser. Keep the sign convention explicit and use mass in kilograms when expecting SI momentum and velocity units.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are impulse and momentum the same unit?
Yes. A newton-second is dimensionally equal to a kilogram-meter per second.
Can force be negative?
Yes. A negative force creates impulse opposite the chosen positive axis and reduces signed momentum.
What if force changes during the interval?
Use the integral or area under the force-time curve rather than multiplying one constant force by time.
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