Physics
Impulse equals change in momentum
The same quantity expressed in terms of mass and velocity change, which is usually easier to measure.
The Formula
J = m x change in velocity
The same quantity expressed in terms of mass and velocity change, which is usually easier to measure.
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| J | Impulse | newton seconds | Change in momentum. |
| m | Mass | kilograms | Mass of the object. |
| dv | Velocity change | m/s | Final velocity minus initial velocity. |
What Each Symbol Means
Jnewton seconds
Impulse
Change in momentum.
mkilograms
Mass
Mass of the object.
dvm/s
Velocity change
Final velocity minus initial velocity.
See It Worked With Real Numbers
A formula on its own does not tell you which number goes where. The how to calculate impulse page applies this equation to a concrete case, shows every intermediate step, and names the mistakes that produce a wrong answer even when the algebra is right.
Where This Formula Appears
This equation is the working core of How To Calculate Impulse, filed under Science. Every number the guide produces comes from substituting into this one line.