Background Physics of Bouncing a Ball

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In summary, the background physics of "bouncing a ball" involves momentum and impulse, as well as energy and collisions. A key factor to consider is the coefficient of restitution, which measures the ratio of kinetic energy before and after a collision. This factor plays a role in determining the energy of the ball's subsequent bounces.
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rachael
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What is the background physics of "bouncing a ball?
Momentum and impulse are the background physics but is there any thing else?
 
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  • #2
You may also wish to consider energy.

~H
 
  • #3
More specifically, with energy and collisions there is a dimensionless quantity called the coefficient of restitution. This number is a ratio of KE after the collision to that of the KE before the collision. Thus if the initial first bounce had a KE of 10J at the ground and the coefficient of restitiution was 0.6, then on the ball's way back up, it would be leaving the ground with a KE of 6J (the other 4J are dissipated mostly into heat, vibrations, and material deformation)
 

Related to Background Physics of Bouncing a Ball

1. How does gravity affect the bouncing of a ball?

Gravity plays a crucial role in the bouncing of a ball. When the ball is dropped, gravity pulls it towards the ground, causing it to accelerate. As the ball reaches the ground, it compresses and then quickly expands, pushing against the ground with a force equal to its weight. This force causes the ball to bounce back up into the air.

2. Why does a ball bounce higher on a hard surface compared to a soft surface?

A ball bounces higher on a hard surface because the surface is less deformable, meaning it can store and return more energy to the ball upon impact. On the other hand, a soft surface will absorb more of the ball's energy, resulting in a lower bounce.

3. How does air resistance affect the bouncing of a ball?

Air resistance, also known as drag, can decrease the height of a ball's bounce. When the ball is in motion, it collides with air molecules, which creates a drag force that acts in the opposite direction of the ball's motion. This force reduces the speed and height of the ball's bounce.

4. What factors affect the height of a ball's bounce?

The height of a ball's bounce can be affected by various factors, including the material and elasticity of the ball, the surface it bounces on, air resistance, and the force with which it is thrown or dropped.

5. Is the physics of bouncing the same for all types of balls?

No, the physics of bouncing can vary depending on the type of ball. For example, a basketball has different properties and bounce characteristics compared to a tennis ball. The size, shape, material, and air pressure of a ball can all affect its bouncing behavior.

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