Is Acceleration Different During a Baseball's Flight?

In summary, the acceleration of a ball hit in a pop fly is the same on the way up and down. However, the acceleration at the top of its flight is different from the acceleration just before it lands. The direction of the velocity, not the acceleration due to gravity, determines whether the ball is slowing down or speeding up.
  • #1
pttest
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Homework Statement



A batter hits a pop fly straight up.
a) Is the acceleration of the ball on the way up different from its acceleration on the way down? (YES / NO)
b) Is the acceleration of the ball at the top of its flight different from its acceleration just before it lands?Yes / No?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


a. There is no difference in acceleration on the way up & down.
b. Yes. I was wondering at the top of its flight the ball slows down and the ball doesn't slow down right before it lands. Am I correct?

Thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
b) No. Slowing down or speeding up depends on the direction of the velocity, not on the acceleration due to gravity, which is always in the downward direction.
 
  • #3
a) Upwards the acceleration is gravity and downwards the acceleration is gravity...the initial veloicty may be positive but the acceleration is not, once the ball is hit, it has negative acceleration.
 

1. What is 1D kinematics in relation to baseball?

1D kinematics in baseball refers to the study of the motion of a baseball in one dimension, usually along a straight line. It involves analyzing the velocity, acceleration, and displacement of the ball as it travels through the air.

2. How is the initial velocity of a baseball determined?

The initial velocity of a baseball can be determined by measuring the speed of the ball as it leaves the pitcher's hand. This can be done using radar guns or by timing the ball's flight from the pitcher's hand to home plate.

3. What factors affect the acceleration of a baseball?

The acceleration of a baseball is affected by several factors, including the force applied by the pitcher, air resistance, and the gravitational pull of the Earth. The type of pitch being thrown, such as a fastball or a curveball, can also affect the acceleration of the ball.

4. How does air resistance impact the flight of a baseball?

Air resistance, also known as drag, can significantly impact the flight of a baseball. As the ball moves through the air, it experiences a force in the opposite direction of its motion, causing it to slow down. This can affect the distance and trajectory of the ball.

5. What is the equation for calculating the displacement of a baseball?

The equation for calculating the displacement of a baseball is d = v0t + 1/2at2, where d is the displacement, v0 is the initial velocity, a is the acceleration, and t is the time. This equation assumes constant acceleration and no change in direction of the ball.

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