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

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the comparison of the force of impact between a ball dropped vertically and a ball launched horizontally from the same height. Both objects experience the same gravitational acceleration, resulting in identical vertical impact velocities, thus producing the same force of impact according to the formula F=MA. However, the horizontally launched ball may impart additional force due to friction upon impact, as it resists rolling. This nuanced understanding clarifies that while vertical impact forces are equal, horizontal motion introduces complexity in the overall impact dynamics.

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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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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.
 

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