What is Average Impact Force?
Average impact force is the mean force exerted during a collision or impact event. It represents the average rate of change of momentum during the impact duration.
Formula
The average impact force is calculated using:
$$I_{ave} = \frac{m \times \Delta v}{2 \times \Delta t}$$
Where:
- I = Average impact force (N)
- m = Mass (kg)
- ฮv = Change in velocity (m/s)
- ฮt = Change in time (s)
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the mass of the object in kilograms
- Enter the change in velocity in meters per second
- Enter the change in time (impact duration) in seconds
- Click Calculate to see the average impact force
Example Calculation
For an object with:
- Mass = 30 kg
- Change in velocity = 150 m/s
- Change in time = 0.75 s
$$I_{ave} = \frac{30 \times 150}{2 \times 0.75} = \frac{4500}{1.5} = 3000 \text{ N}$$
The average impact force is 3000 N.
Applications
Average impact force calculations are important in:
- Vehicle crash analysis and safety engineering
- Sports equipment design (helmets, protective gear)
- Packaging design for fragile items
- Aerospace engineering and landing systems
- Biomechanics and injury prevention studies