How Does a Ball Come Back to You After You Throw It?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around a thought-provoking question posed by a first grader regarding the mechanics of a ball returning after being thrown. The consensus among participants is that gravity is the primary force at play, pulling the ball back towards the thrower. The humorous tone reflects the perplexity of adults when faced with simple physics concepts, emphasizing the importance of understanding fundamental forces like gravity in everyday scenarios.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of Newtonian physics
  • Familiarity with the concept of gravitational force
  • Knowledge of projectile motion principles
  • Awareness of how forces interact in a vacuum
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the laws of motion as defined by Isaac Newton
  • Explore the concept of gravitational force and its effects on objects
  • Study projectile motion and its real-world applications
  • Investigate the role of air resistance in the motion of thrown objects
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for educators, parents helping children with science questions, and anyone interested in basic physics concepts related to motion and gravity.

perplexed58
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My first grader got this as an extra credit question. It has me perplexed (and embarassed that I have absolutely no clue as to what the answer might be).

Here goes:
You have a ball. You throw it as hard as you can. It does not hit anything. It is not attached to anything. The ball returns to you. Explain.

Maybe I need to repeat first grade...

Thanks,
perplexed58
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Think gravity.

- Warren
 
Oh my God!

Thank you. Clear proof that I'm spending way too much time overthinking things.
 

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