Impulse: Clay ball that sticks vs. Rubber ball that bounces?

In summary, the rubber ball exerts a larger impulse on the wall due to its greater change in velocity when bouncing off the wall compared to the clay ball, which only experiences a change in velocity from x to 0. This is calculated using the equation J = mΔv, where the rubber ball's change in velocity is approximately -2x and the clay ball's change in velocity is -x.
  • #1
Glorzifen
25
0

Homework Statement



A 10 g rubber ball and a 10 g clay ball are thrown at a
wall with equal speeds. The rubber ball bounces, the
clay ball sticks. Which ball exerts a larger impulse on
the wall?


Homework Equations



J (impulse) = Favg*dt


The Attempt at a Solution



I think that the rubber ball would exert more of an impulse because it's dt would be larger. Since it has to hit the ball and bounce of it, as opposed to the clay, which hits the wall and stops.

Thoughts?
 
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  • #2
Impulse is either F*Δt or m*Δv.
The first expression is difficult to use because you don't actually know the force and duration of the collisions with the wall. Use the second expression. The difference is in the Δv.
 
  • #3
Thought I replied to this.

Okay, so with the clay ball, the change in v is from x to 0, so it's -x. The rubber ball bounces though...and though it may leave the wall with a different speed, it's velocity has changed more than the clay ball's since it changed direction (x to -x...so -2x roughly). Therefore the rubber ball is exerts more impulse on the wall?
 
  • #4
right.
 

1. What causes a clay ball to stick upon impact?

When a clay ball collides with a surface, it experiences a force known as impulse. This impulse causes the clay particles to deform and stick together, creating a temporary bond with the surface. As a result, the clay ball does not bounce off the surface like a rubber ball does.

2. Why does a rubber ball bounce instead of sticking upon impact?

A rubber ball is made of elastic material, which means it can deform and then return to its original shape. When a rubber ball collides with a surface, the force of the impact causes the rubber to compress. This compression stores potential energy, which is released as kinetic energy when the rubber ball bounces off the surface.

3. How does the mass of the ball affect its impulse and bouncing ability?

The mass of a ball affects its impulse and bouncing ability because it determines how much force it can generate upon impact. A heavier ball will have a greater impulse and will be able to overcome the force of gravity and bounce higher. However, a lighter ball may have a smaller impulse and bounce lower.

4. Does the surface material affect the impulse and bouncing ability of the ball?

Yes, the surface material does affect the impulse and bouncing ability of a ball. A softer surface, such as clay, will result in a larger impulse and a stickier impact, causing the ball to stick and not bounce. A harder surface, such as concrete, will result in a smaller impulse and a more elastic impact, causing the ball to bounce higher.

5. Can the shape of the ball affect its impulse and bouncing ability?

Yes, the shape of a ball can affect its impulse and bouncing ability. A round ball will have a more uniform distribution of force upon impact, resulting in a higher impulse and a better bounce. A ball with an irregular shape may have a more uneven distribution of force, resulting in a lower impulse and a less predictable bounce.

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