The problem involves calculating the impulse experienced by a tennis ball of mass 0.060 kg and speed 25 m/s as it strikes a wall at a 45-degree angle and rebounds with the same speed at the same angle. The focus is on understanding the relationship between impulse and momentum in this context.
Some participants have provided guidance on the approach to take, suggesting consistency in the choice of trigonometric functions. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of angle definitions in relation to the wall's surface and normal.
Participants are navigating the implications of angle definitions and the correct application of trigonometric functions in the context of the problem. There is a recognition of the need for clarity in future similar problems.
Impulse is the change in momentum, so you're on the right track. But why use 30o in your trig functions? The problem statement says the angles are both 45o.runningirl said:.06(25)(cos30)+.06(25)(sin30)?
i actually had no idea...
Essentially, yes, your method works. But I would pick one trig function (either sine or cosine) and stick with it. In general, the one you pick depends on how the angle is defined -- with respect to the wall's surface or the wall's normal. Of course in this particular problem, with the angle being 45o, you'll get the same answer either way. But generally speaking for similar, future problems, you'll have to use the correct one.runningirl said:sorry, i mean 45. but is my method correct?