PHYSICS CONNECTION
A force–time graph measures impulse
The area under a resultant force–time graph is the change in momentum. A longer collision time can reduce average force for the same momentum change.
Impulse = area under F–t = Δp
Follow the reasoning
- Convert the time axis to seconds.
- Estimate the signed area under the force curve.
- Relate the impulse to the change in momentum.
OFFICIAL OCR QUESTIONS
Try it in a past paper 1
Open the question, then use its mark scheme to check your work.
Question 17
Find impulse from the area under a force–time graph.
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ORIGINAL PHYSICSUK QUESTIONS
Put the ideas to work
More practice is on its way
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Specification outcomes (4)
- 3.5.1(d) Define impulse of a force; impulse = FΔt.
- 3.5.1(e) Recognise impulse as the area under a force–time graph and estimate for non-linear graphs.
- 1.1.3(a) Processing, analysing and interpreting qualitative and quantitative experimental results.
- 1.1.3(b) Use of appropriate mathematical skills for analysis of quantitative data.