Help (pic) Force of impact. Launched vs Dropped. Same height.

In summary, if a ball is dropped or launched horizontally at the same starting height, they will have the same force of impact. This is because the velocity in the x direction does not affect the velocity in the -y direction, which is the impacting velocity. However, due to friction, the sideways ball may impart more force in the horizontal direction.
  • #1
bobbo7410
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Would a ball dropped vs launched(horizontally) have the same force of impact? (same starting height)

I can't wrap my mind around this... I know there's no acceleration in the x-direction, yet I would imagine the launched object would have a greater force of impact. (negating the ball rolling after impact, etc)

Or in the end is it really F=MA for both...
 
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  • #2
bobbo7410 said:
Would they have the same force of impact?

Yes, because the velocity in the x direction would not contribute to the velocity in the -y direction (the impacting velocity).

Although, because of friction, the sideways ball WILL impart more force than the other ball... But just not in the -y direction, more like a sideways push as it resists beginning to roll.
 

What is the difference between launched and dropped in terms of force of impact?

Launched and dropped refer to the two different ways an object can be released from a certain height. When an object is launched, it is given an initial velocity that adds to its force of impact upon reaching the ground. On the other hand, when an object is simply dropped, it only has the force of gravity acting on it as it falls, resulting in a lower force of impact compared to a launched object.

Does the height of the object affect the force of impact?

Yes, the height of an object can greatly affect the force of impact when it falls or is launched. The higher the object is released from, the greater the force of impact it will have upon reaching the ground. This is because the object has more time to accelerate due to the pull of gravity.

Is there a difference in force of impact between a launched and dropped object if they are released from the same height?

Yes, there is a difference in force of impact between a launched and dropped object even if they are released from the same height. This is because the launched object has an initial velocity that adds to its force of impact, while the dropped object only has the force of gravity acting on it.

How does the mass of the object affect the force of impact?

The mass of an object does not directly affect the force of impact. However, a heavier object will require more force to accelerate, resulting in a greater impact force upon reaching the ground. This is why it is important to consider the mass of objects when calculating force of impact.

Can the angle of launch affect the force of impact?

Yes, the angle of launch can affect the force of impact. When an object is launched at an angle, the force of impact will be split between the vertical and horizontal components of the launch. This means that the object will have a lower force of impact compared to a straight vertical launch from the same height.

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