Final answer:
Impact relates to the concept of impulse, which quantifies the change in momentum (Δp) caused by a force over a time interval, whether it's a small force over a long period or a large force over a brief period.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impact is described by the concept of impulse, which is the result of applying a force on a system for a certain time interval. The impulse has a significant effect on an object's momentum, which is the product of an object's mass and velocity. If a small force is applied over a long period of time, it can produce the same change in momentum as a large force applied briefly.
An example to consider is a tennis ball being hit by a racquet, where a large force is applied over a short time, changing the ball's momentum significantly. Similarly, gravity can exert a small force on the ball over a longer period, leading to a reversal of its momentum. The quantitative measure of impulse is the change in momentum (Δp), and it's crucial to understand that while the time interval for impulse can be very short, it doesn't necessarily need to be.