A ball of mass m with initial velocity u rebounds from a wall, with final velocity v. Using Newton's laws of motion explain forces acting in the system.

The ball has initial momentum p1= mu, and final momentum p2=vm. According to the Newton's 2nd law of motion a force exerted on the ball is equal to the rate of change of momentum . It is thus:F = ( p2-p1)/t , where t is the time of interaction (instert suitable diagram). Substituting for momenta:F = (mv - mu)/t, or F = m(v - u)/tTherefore knowing the magnitude of velocities, it is possible to calculate the force exerted on the ball by the wall during the collision. Note that velocities are vectors, so u and v are of opposite signs.According to the Newton's 3rd law of motion, if object A exerts some force on object B, then object B exerts force of the same magnitude but opposite direction on object A.In the presented case this means that the ball acts on the wall with a force of the same magnitude but opposite direction (instert suitable diagram).

MM

Related Physics IB answers

All answers ▸

How can an object in circular motion be accelerating when it's at the same speed?


Sue's brother is on a sled on top of ice (assume no friction). Sue is pulling her brother with 15 N of force at a 38 degree angle above the horizontal. Calculate the work done if she pulls him for 50 meters.


Explain why increase in current results in higher temperature of the wire.


Derive kepler's third law