The problem involves two individuals, Alice and Bill, who release balls from the top of a building, with Alice throwing her ball downward and Bill simply dropping his. The question posed is about the acceleration of the balls just after their release, specifically which ball experiences greater acceleration.
The discussion is exploring different interpretations of the forces involved. Some participants suggest that both balls experience the same acceleration due to gravity after release, while others are questioning the role of the initial force exerted by Alice.
There is a focus on the definitions of forces acting on the balls and the distinction between the moments of throwing and releasing. Participants are examining the implications of these actions on the acceleration experienced by the balls.
Kenny Wong said:Homework Statement
Alice and Bill are at the top of a building. Alice throws her ball downward. Bill simply drops his ball. Which ball has the greater acceleration just after release?
Homework Equations
force, F=ma and F=mg
The Attempt at a Solution
Alice: F=ma+mg=m(a+g)
Bill: F=mg
Alice's ball has a greater acceleration.
I AM WRONG. WHY?
Bill drops, Alice throws. But both release, otherwise they'd still be holding onto their balls. You're meant to consider the portion of the trajectories when they are no longer in contact with their ball.Kenny Wong said:Because Alice throws instead of releases, an extra force is exerted downwards?