If a fast-moving object strikes you, you'll experience less force of impact if you can ____________________.
A) increase the time the momentum decreases.
B) shorten the time the momentum decreases.
C) either shorten or increase the time, for the result is the same.
F * time = change of momentum
the longer the time, the less the force.
(use springy helmet)
To determine the correct answer, it is important to understand the concept of impulse and momentum.
When a fast-moving object strikes you, the force of impact can be reduced by either increasing the time over which the momentum decreases or decreasing the time it takes for the momentum to decrease.
The formula for impulse is given by I = F * Δt, where I represents the impulse, F represents the force applied, and Δt represents the change in time.
The momentum of an object is given by the equation p = m * v, where p represents momentum, m represents mass, and v represents velocity.
To reduce the force of impact, we want to decrease the rate at which the momentum changes. This can be achieved by either increasing the time (Δt) over which the momentum decreases (option A) or by shortening the time it takes for the momentum to decrease (option B).
So, both option A (increase the time the momentum decreases) and option B (shorten the time the momentum decreases) are correct answers. Either option will result in reducing the force of impact because it reduces the rate at which momentum changes and, consequently, the force applied. Therefore, the correct answer is option C (either shorten or increase the time, for the result is the same).