Does the Soccer Ball Move If I Kick It with Equal Force?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mechanics of force and motion, specifically addressing the question of why a soccer ball moves when kicked, despite the forces being equal according to Newton's third law. Participants explore concepts related to mass, acceleration, and the implications of equal and unequal forces.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why the soccer ball moves if the forces exerted on it and by it are equal, seeking a deeper understanding of the mechanics involved.
  • Another participant explains that the soccer ball has a smaller mass than the foot, leading to greater acceleration of the ball when kicked, despite the equal forces involved.
  • A later post reiterates the initial question, emphasizing the need for clarification on the relationship between force and motion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing levels of understanding regarding the implications of equal forces and the resulting motion, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved on some aspects of the initial question.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not fully address the nuances of force, mass, and acceleration, leaving some assumptions about these relationships unexamined.

Dynamics101
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If i kick a soccer ball, the soccer ball exerts the same force on my foot as i exert of the ball. In that case, why does the soccer ball move at all. If the forces are equal should there be motion. I know it a dumb question but i need some deep explanation. Also can I exert force on something and have the forces be unequal? Or will force always be equal regardless.
 
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It's not that deep,
The soccer ball has a smaller mass than your body does.
Therefore the force exerted on the soccer ball by you causes the ball to accelerate rapidly.
The equivalent force applied by the ball to your foot is the same amount but it doesn't accelerate your 'heavier' foot very much.
(It will be noticeable though.)
 
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Thank you bud :D
 
Dynamics101 said:
If i kick a soccer ball, the soccer ball exerts the same force on my foot as i exert of the ball. In that case, why does the soccer ball move at all. If the forces are equal should there be motion. I know it a dumb question but i need some deep explanation. Also can I exert force on something and have the forces be unequal? Or will force always be equal regardless.
https://www.lhup.edu/~dsimanek/physics/horsecart.htm
 

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