Explain the following action in terms of impulses

In summary, the impulse is defined as the change in momentum of an object and is calculated by multiplying the force acting on the object by the time it is applied. In terms of impulses, a golfer's long drive would have a larger force and longer time of contact with the ball compared to a short chip shot, resulting in a greater change in the ball's momentum. Similarly, a boxer's knockout punch would have a larger force and longer time of contact compared to a jab, resulting in a greater change in the opponent's momentum. In baseball, a homerun swing would have a larger force and longer time of contact with the ball compared to a bunting action, resulting in a greater change in the ball's momentum.
  • #1
bigd9903
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Explain the difference for each of the following pairs of actions in terms of impulses; (a) A golfer's long drive and a short chip shot; (b) a boxer's jab and a knock-out punches; (c) a baseball player's bunting action and a homerun swing
 
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bigd9903 said:
Explain the difference for each of the following pairs of actions in terms of impulses; (a) A golfer's long drive and a short chip shot; (b) a boxer's jab and a knock-out punches; (c) a baseball player's bunting action and a homerun swing

Welcome to the PF. We don't do your homework for you, but we can offer some tutorial hints. What is the definition of the impulse? What is the equation that describes the impulse? What is different in (a) that would affect the impulse? How about (b) and (c)?
 
  • #3


Impulses are a fundamental concept in physics that describe the change in momentum of an object over time. In terms of sports, impulses can be thought of as the force applied to an object, such as a golf club or a fist, to cause it to accelerate and move.

In a golfer's long drive, a large impulse is applied to the golf club during the swing. This impulse causes the club to accelerate and generate a high velocity, resulting in a long and powerful shot. On the other hand, in a short chip shot, a smaller impulse is applied to the club, resulting in a lower velocity and a shorter shot. The difference in the length of the shot is due to the difference in the magnitude of the impulse applied.

Similarly, in boxing, a boxer's jab is a quick, short punch that applies a small impulse to the opponent's face. This may not result in a significant change in momentum, but it can be used to set up a more powerful knock-out punch. A knock-out punch, on the other hand, is a strong and forceful punch that applies a larger impulse to the opponent, resulting in a greater change in momentum and potentially knocking them out. The difference in the strength of the punch is due to the difference in the magnitude of the impulse applied.

In baseball, a bunting action involves lightly tapping the ball with the bat, applying a small impulse to the ball to redirect it and advance a runner. This is in contrast to a homerun swing, where a large impulse is applied to the ball, resulting in a high velocity and a long-distance hit. The difference in the outcome is again due to the difference in the magnitude of the impulse applied.

In conclusion, impulses play a crucial role in differentiating between the length, strength, and outcome of various actions in sports. Understanding the concept of impulses can help athletes improve their performance by adjusting the magnitude of their impulses to achieve their desired results.
 

Related to Explain the following action in terms of impulses

1. What is an impulse?

An impulse is a sudden change in momentum that occurs when a force is applied over a short period of time. It is equal to the force multiplied by the time it acts for.

2. How is an impulse related to Newton's second law?

Newton's second law states that the net force acting on an object is equal to the rate of change of its momentum. In other words, the force applied to an object over a given period of time (impulse) will result in a change in the object's momentum.

3. What are some real-life examples of impulses?

Some examples of impulses in everyday life include catching a ball, hitting a tennis racket, and jumping off a diving board. In each of these scenarios, a force is applied over a short period of time, resulting in a change in momentum.

4. How is impulse related to the concept of momentum?

Impulse and momentum are directly related, as impulse is defined as the change in an object's momentum. This means that the greater the impulse, the greater the change in momentum and vice versa.

5. How can we calculate the impulse of an action?

The impulse of an action can be calculated using the equation I = F x t, where I is the impulse, F is the force applied, and t is the time period over which the force acts. This equation can also be written as I = ∆p, where ∆p is the change in momentum.

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