Constant force exerted on the ball by the wall?

In summary, a constant force exerted by a wall on a ball refers to the continuous application of the same amount of force on the ball by the wall. This force can affect the motion of the ball, such as causing it to bounce or roll, and can also impact the structural integrity of both the wall and the ball. The magnitude and direction of the force can vary depending on factors such as the materials and surfaces involved, and can be influenced by external factors like air resistance. Understanding the concept of constant force is important in various fields, such as physics, engineering, and sports.
  • #1
Addison
5
0
a 2.5 kg ball strikes a wall with a velocity of 8.5 m/s to the left. The ball bounces off with a velocity of 7.5 m/s to the right. If the ball is in contact with the wall for .25s, what is the constant force exerted on the ball by the wall?
 
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  • #3
Momentum to the left, before the collision, is (- 8.5m/s)(2.5 kg) (negative because it is to the left). Momentum to the right, after the collision is (7.5 m/s)(2.5kg). Change in momentum is the difference between those: (7.5 m/s)(2.5kg)+(8.5m/s)(2.5 kg).
Since that took place in 0.25 s, the average rate of change of momentum is that divided by 0.25 s. Force IS rate of change of momentum.
 

1. How does the wall exert a constant force on the ball?

The wall exerts a constant force on the ball through contact forces, such as friction and normal force. When the ball hits the wall, the wall exerts a normal force perpendicular to the surface of the wall, and a frictional force parallel to the surface. These forces act together to keep the ball in contact with the wall and exert a constant force on it.

2. What factors affect the magnitude of the constant force exerted by the wall?

The magnitude of the constant force exerted by the wall depends on the speed and mass of the ball, as well as the material and surface properties of both the ball and the wall. The angle at which the ball hits the wall can also affect the magnitude of the force.

3. Is the force exerted by the wall on the ball always constant?

In an ideal scenario, where there is no air resistance or other external forces, the force exerted by the wall on the ball would remain constant. However, in real-world situations, the force may vary slightly due to factors such as air resistance or imperfections in the surface of the wall.

4. How does the constant force exerted by the wall affect the motion of the ball?

The constant force exerted by the wall causes the ball to accelerate in the direction of the force. This acceleration can be calculated using Newton's second law of motion, which states that the force exerted on an object is equal to its mass multiplied by its acceleration.

5. Can the constant force exerted by the wall be changed?

The constant force exerted by the wall can be changed by altering the factors that affect its magnitude, such as the speed and mass of the ball. Additionally, changing the angle at which the ball hits the wall can also change the magnitude and direction of the force exerted by the wall on the ball.

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