Calculating Average Force: 0.110 kg Baseball Strikes Catcher's Mitt

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To calculate the average force exerted by a 0.110 kg baseball striking a catcher's mitt, first determine the average acceleration using the kinematic equation V² = 2*a*x, where V is the initial velocity and x is the distance the mitt recoils. With the baseball traveling at 34.0 m/s and the mitt recoiling 14.0 cm, the average acceleration can be calculated. Once acceleration is found, apply Newton's second law, F = m*a, to find the average force. The discussion highlights the importance of breaking down the problem into manageable steps. Understanding these concepts can simplify the calculations involved in physics problems.
JohnnyB212
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Have a difficult time on where to start here, iv'e looked over the book, and my notes, and I believe the question is more basic than given, Am I thinking too in depth here? Help please!




A 0.110 kg baseball, traveling 34.0 m/s, strikes the catcher's mitt, which recoils 14.0 cm in bringing the ball to rest. What was the average force (in Newtons) applied by the ball to the mitt?
 
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From the velocity and distance to stop, you can get an average acceleration. Then given that acceleration and a mass, you should be able to get an average force.
 
JohnnyB212 said:
A 0.110 kg baseball, traveling 34.0 m/s, strikes the catcher's mitt, which recoils 14.0 cm in bringing the ball to rest. What was the average force (in Newtons) applied by the ball to the mitt?

Welcome to PF.

F = m*a

So all you are missing is a.

But a can be found fairly simply by V2 = 2*a*x

For kinematic equations:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=905663&postcount=2
 
LowlyPion said:
Welcome to PF.

F = m*a

So all you are missing is a.

But a can be found fairly simply by V2 = 2*a*x

For kinematic equations:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=905663&postcount=2



THANK YOU! I knew this was easier than I expected. I'm a newbie here but expect more from me, Physics is one of those classes that keeps me up at night :cry:
 
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