Applying Newton's Third Law to Tetherball

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of Newton's Third Law of Motion to the game of tetherball. It establishes that forces occur in pairs, exemplified by the interaction between the tetherball and the pole. When the tetherball exerts a force on the pole through the rope, the pole simultaneously exerts an equal and opposite force on the tetherball. This interaction illustrates the fundamental principle of action and reaction forces in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Laws of Motion
  • Basic knowledge of forces and interactions
  • Familiarity with the concept of action and reaction forces
  • Concept of tension in ropes or strings
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore detailed examples of Newton's Third Law in various sports contexts
  • Study the concept of tension in physics, particularly in ropes and cables
  • Investigate real-world applications of action-reaction pairs
  • Learn about the dynamics of circular motion as it relates to tetherball
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching motion concepts, and anyone interested in the practical applications of Newton's Laws in sports and everyday scenarios.

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Homework Statement


How does Newton's Third Law of Motion apply to a tetherball?


Homework Equations


N/A


The Attempt at a Solution


Forces always occur in pairs (action/reaction force).
I know that when you're pushing on a wall, the wall pushes back on you, which is why you don't move at all. But what is the reaction force from the tetherball?
 
Last edited:
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The tetherball situation is similar to you pushing on the wall.

The pole is pulling on the ball through the rope connecting them. So, what is the ball doing to the pole through the rope?
 
The ball is pulling on the pole through the rope?
Okay. I think I got it. Thank you!
 

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