Final Answer:
The magnitude of the impulse applied to the 30-kilogram rollerskater is 2 Newton-seconds. This is calculated by multiplying the force exerted (10 Newtons) by the duration of the interaction (0.20 seconds).
Step-by-step explanation:
The impulse experienced by an object is a crucial concept in physics, reflecting the change in momentum resulting from an applied force over a specific time interval. In this scenario, a 60-kilogram rollerskater exerts a force of 10 Newtons on a 30-kilogram rollerskater for a duration of 0.20 seconds. The impulse, calculated using the formula Impulse = Force × Time, equals 10 N × 0.20 s, resulting in an impulse of 2 Newton-seconds.
Impulse is intricately tied to the alteration in momentum, representing the product of force and the time during which it acts. In this case, the force applied by the 60-kilogram rollerskater imparts a momentum change to the 30-kilogram rollerskater. This change in momentum, quantified as the impulse, helps describe how the object's motion is affected by external forces.
Understanding impulse is fundamental in the analysis of collisions and interactions between objects. It provides insights into the dynamics of these events, helping physicists and engineers predict and comprehend the resulting motions. Whether in sports, engineering, or everyday scenarios, the concept of impulse plays a pivotal role in explaining the intricate relationships between force, time, and the resulting changes in momentum.