Solve Impulse Problem: Find Lowest Average Force

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In summary, the question asks which scenario would require the least average force to achieve a specific change in momentum. Using the equation F=ma and the concept of proportionality between change in momentum and average force, it can be determined that option D would require the least average force. This is because it has the smallest change in momentum and the longest time interval.
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ortegavs
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Homework Statement


Which of the following could be accomplished with the least average force?
a: accelerating a 2 kg ball from 0 m/s to 9 m/s in half a second.
b: accelerating a 6 kg ball from 0 m/s to 6 m/s in one second.
c: accelerating a 9 kg ball from 0 m/s to 8 m/s in two seconds.
d: accelerating a 10 kg ball from 0 m/s to 7m/s in two seconds


Homework Equations


F=ma
ma Δt= Δp
p=mv


The Attempt at a Solution

Answer given as correct is D. I used proportions to solve this problem since Δp is proportional to average force. Since initial p is zero for all the problems than Δp is lowest with answer A; pf- pi= 18 kg m/s. If it had asked for force alone than the seconds matter and then you solve for force gives f= Δp/ Δt. If you do it this way a,b, and c all give 36N while d give 35N. But the question does not ask for lowest force it ask for lowest average force. Am I right or did I make a mistake somewhere?
 
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  • #2
Ya unfortunately the average force is defined as the Impulse ( or change in momentum) divided by the change in time. I think you were mistaking net force for average force.

Joe
 
  • #3
ortegavs said:
I used proportions to solve this problem since Δp is proportional to average force.
... and it's proportional to the time as well. From the impulse equation:
Δp = Faverage·Δt​
Δt must be taken into account.
 

FAQ: Solve Impulse Problem: Find Lowest Average Force

What is an impulse problem?

An impulse problem is a physics problem where the goal is to find the average force applied to an object over a certain period of time. This is typically done by using the formula Favg = mΔv/Δt, where m is the mass of the object, Δv is the change in velocity, and Δt is the time interval.

Why is it important to solve impulse problems?

Impulse problems are important because they allow us to understand and analyze the effects of forces on objects. By finding the average force applied to an object, we can determine the magnitude and direction of the force, as well as the resulting motion of the object.

What is the role of the lowest average force in an impulse problem?

The lowest average force is the minimum force required to produce a change in velocity of an object over a specific time interval. It is an important factor in impulse problems because it represents the least amount of force needed to achieve a certain outcome, making it a valuable measurement in analyzing the effects of forces on objects.

How do you find the lowest average force in an impulse problem?

The lowest average force can be found by rearranging the formula Favg = mΔv/Δt to solve for Favg. This can be done by multiplying both sides of the equation by Δt and then dividing by Δv. The resulting equation, Favg = m/Δt * Δv, will give you the lowest average force required for a given impulse problem.

What are some real-world applications of solving impulse problems?

Solving impulse problems can be applied to various fields such as engineering, sports, and transportation. For example, engineers can use impulse problems to design safer vehicles by understanding the forces involved in collisions. Athletes can also utilize this concept to improve their performance by optimizing their movements and reducing the risk of injury. In transportation, impulse problems are used to design safety features in vehicles and evaluate the impact of crashes on passengers.

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