Possible forces acting on the ball rolling down a slope?

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    Ball Rolling Slope
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SUMMARY

The primary forces acting on a ball rolling down a slope, when neglecting friction and air resistance, are the gravitational force exerted by the Earth and the normal force from the slope. In ideal conditions, these two forces are sufficient to describe the motion. However, in real-world scenarios, additional factors such as energy transfer to heat, sound, and potential interactions with magnetic fields can influence the ball's behavior. Understanding these forces is crucial for accurately analyzing motion in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force and its effects
  • Knowledge of normal force and its role in inclined planes
  • Familiarity with basic physics concepts of motion
  • Awareness of energy transfer principles in mechanical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of friction on rolling motion in physics
  • Explore the concept of energy transfer in mechanical systems
  • Learn about the role of air resistance in motion dynamics
  • Investigate the interaction between magnetic fields and moving objects
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of motion on inclined planes and the forces involved in rolling objects.

GreenTea09
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neglecting friction from the slope and air resistance,
what are the possible forces acting on the ball?

i can only think of 2:
gravitational force by the Earth on the ball.
normal force exerted by the slope on the ball.

are there any other forces else that i missed out?
 
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Sounds like that's about it.

Of course, if the ball is rolling down the slope, there is usually friction involved. (Else it would just slide.)
 
Last edited:
GreenTea09 said:
neglecting friction from the slope and air resistance,
what are the possible forces acting on the ball?

i can only think of 2:
gravitational force by the Earth on the ball.
normal force exerted by the slope on the ball.

are there any other forces else that i missed out?

In ideal conditions you are correct.

Real world: Energy transfer/inefficiencies would include mechanical to heat, sound, if hitting some rocks (sparks) light... if it's a metal ball passing over any magnets in the ground, electric.
 

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