Question

which will result in the greatest impulse applied to an object? a small force applied for a long time. a large force applied for a short time. a large force applied for a long time. a small force applied for a short time.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall impulse formula

Impulse $J = F\times\Delta t$, where $F$ is force and $\Delta t$ is time - interval.

Step2: Analyze each option

• Small force for long time: Small $F$, large $\Delta t$, so $J$ may not be the largest.
• Large force for short time: Large $F$, small $\Delta t$, $J$ may not be the largest.
• Large force for long time: Large $F$, large $\Delta t$, so $J$ will be large.
• Small force for short time: Small $F$, small $\Delta t$, so $J$ is small.

Answer:

A large force applied for a long time.