Drag acting on ball the moment it bounces

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the physics of a light ball colliding with a wall, specifically addressing the velocity and drag forces at the moment of impact. It is established that the ball has zero velocity in the z-direction at the moment of collision due to a change in direction. However, the ball retains non-zero velocity in the x and y directions, meaning drag forces in these axes cannot be ignored. The drag force is described by the equation D ~ (Av^2)/4, indicating that while drag is minimal, it is present in the x and y directions during the collision.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly momentum and velocity.
  • Familiarity with drag force equations, specifically D ~ (Av^2)/4.
  • Knowledge of coordinate systems, particularly the xy-plane.
  • Basic principles of collision dynamics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of drag forces on projectile motion in various mediums.
  • Explore advanced collision dynamics, focusing on elastic and inelastic collisions.
  • Learn about the role of air resistance in different shapes and sizes of objects.
  • Investigate the mathematical modeling of drag forces in fluid dynamics.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of collisions and drag forces in motion.

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Homework Statement



Suppose a very light ball is thrown at a wall.

The wall may be thought of as an xy-plane.

At the moment the ball hits the wall, does it have 0 velocity in the x, y and z directions?

Is drag on the ball (in each respective direction) small enough to be ignored at the moment the ball hits the wall?


Homework Equations



D ~ (Av^2)/4

The Attempt at a Solution



I think the ball momentarily has 0 velocity in the z-axis since the ball is changing direction along this axis.

I think the ball will be slowed in the x and y axes at the moment it hits the wall, but its velocity in these directions will not equal zero at that instant.

Therefore, drag can only be ignored in the z-direction.
 
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The actual collision with the wall takes place very quickly. Drag in any direction is so small that it can be ignored.
 
Thanks.

Theoretically, is it correct to say that there is no drag in the z-axis at the moment of collision when the ball has zero velocity in the z direction? And that drag is present in the x and y axes at the moment of collision?
 

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