Dimensional Formula of Impulse

The dimensional formula of Impulse is 

[ M1  L1  T-1 ]

where [M], [L], and [T] are the fundamental quantities: Mass, Length, and Time.

From the above formula, we can derive the dimensions of impulse as (1, 2, -1).

How to calculate the dimensional formula of impulse?

We can derive this formula using the definition of impulse.

In physics, we can define impulse as the measure of the total effect of force. Here, the effect of force depends on the magnitude of the force and the time duration for which the force acts.

So, mathematically impulse is given as:


  Impulse = Force * time

We know that Force = mass * acceleration. Substituting the value of Force in the above formula, we get,


  Impulse = mass * acceleration * time

We know 

  • acceleration = speed / time
  • speed = distance / time
  • acceleration = distance / time2

Therefore,


  Impulse = ( mass * distance / time2 ) * time

          = ( mass * distance * time ) / time2

          = mass1 * distance1 * time-1

Dimensionally, we use

  • [M] for mass
  • [L] for distance
  • [T] for time

Now the formula becomes


Impulse = [M1] * [L1] * [T-1]

Hence, the dimensional equation of impulse is I = [ M1 L1 T-1 ].

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