Forces acting on a thrown object

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a ball thrown vertically upwards, focusing on the forces acting on the ball during its upward movement. The original poster is attempting to calculate the force acting on the ball, specifically questioning whether they are addressing the correct aspect of the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster considers using the weight force equation but expresses uncertainty about whether this is the correct approach for the question. Other participants question the implications of the ball's movement direction and whether the upward velocity should factor into the calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are engaging in a back-and-forth regarding the appropriateness of the original poster's calculations and the relevance of the upward velocity in determining the forces acting on the ball. While some affirm the correctness of the weight force calculation, there remains a lack of consensus on the broader implications of the question.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication of confusion regarding the interpretation of the problem, particularly in relation to the direction of the ball's movement and the equations used. The original poster also expresses concern about the validity of their approach.

Annabelle

Homework Statement


A ball with a mass of 200 g is thrown vertically upwards with an initial velocity of 16.0 m/s. It is allowed to fall back to its original position. Ignore air resistance.
Calculate the force acting on the ball during its upward movement.

Homework Equations


w=mg

The Attempt at a Solution


It's a really basic question, but I can't wrap my head around how or what it means by calculating force.
The only thing I've been able to think of given the data I have is weight force, but I'm not sure if that's what the question is asking me to do?
w=m*g
w=0.200*9.8
w=1.96N
I'm so sorry for the dumb question!
 
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Welcome to PF!

Annabelle said:
w=m*g
w=0.200*9.8
w=1.96N
That is correct.
 
cnh1995 said:
Welcome to PF!That is correct.

Is it a correct answer to the question posed though? What if the ball is in a downward movement?
Thank you for your reply!
 
Annabelle said:
What if the ball is in a downward movement?
What do you think? Did you use the upward velocity in the calculation?
 
haruspex said:
What do you think? Did you use the upward velocity in the calculation?
No, but I'm confused as to whether I used the right equation to answer the original question.
 
Annabelle said:
No, but I'm confused as to whether I used the right equation to answer the original question.
Yes, you did use the right equation to answer the original question.
 

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