
Using integration with the second law
Point 11 of 12 — Differentiation and Integration of Vector Functions and Newton’s Laws of MotionQuestion bank: 0 questions (0 with pictures)
11 Using integration with the second law
From force or acceleration to the change of momentum
- Because F = dp/dt, the change of momentum between two instants is the integral of the force over time: Δp = p₂ − p₁ = ∫t₁t₂ F dt.
- For a body of constant mass: Δp = m∫a dt = m Δv.
- Use this whenever the force or the acceleration is given as a function of time.
Worked examples
- A force F = 6t newtons acts on a body along a line. Δp = ∫04 6t dt = [3t²]04 = 48 kg·m/s.
- A 5 kg body moves with acceleration a = 4t m/s². F = ma = 20t N, so at t = 2, F = 40 N; and Δp = ∫03 20t dt = [10t²]03 = 90 kg·m/s.
Several forces
- When several forces act, the resultant R is their vector sum, then R = m a.
- In vector form the law is applied to each component separately: Rx = m ẍ, Ry = m ÿ.
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