Force, Momentum, and Force Absorption Notes

Newton's Second Law: $F = ma$ (Force equals mass times acceleration).
Mass: The mass of an object remains constant unless altered.
The more force applied to an object, the greater its acceleration, assuming the mass remains constant.
To achieve the same acceleration with a heavier object, more force is required.

Impulse Equation: $Impulse = Force \times Time$
Impulse is equal to the change in momentum.
Momentum Equation: $p = mv$ (Momentum equals mass times velocity).
- If an object is stationary, its velocity is zero; therefore, its momentum is also zero.
Change in momentum (impulse) results from a change in velocity (acceleration), not mass.
Increasing the time over which force is applied leads to a greater change in momentum and thus, greater acceleration.

Throwing a shot put with increased time and proper technique generates greater impulse, leading to increased velocity and distance.
A larger person may apply more force due to greater muscle mass, but the mass being referred to in the equations is that of the object.
Examples of angular motion to increase force production:
- Discus
- Javelin
- Hammer throw
- Cricket bowling
- Gymnastics

Landing with straight legs after a jump results in all force being absorbed over a short time, causing pain or injury.
Flexing at the knees increases the time over which force is absorbed, reducing the impact.
High jump pits and foam pits increase the time of force absorption by deforming.
Graph axis:
- y-axis: Force.
- x-axis: Time.