How do you calculate how much force is applied to a thrown bal

In summary, the conversation is discussing the calculation of the force of a ball being thrown. The equation F=ma is mentioned, but it is pointed out that the force of gravity cancels out in this scenario. The conversation then questions what happens to the ball during the throw, with the mention of it being static at the start and moving at the end.
  • #1
Clarisse
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I’m trying to calculate how hard someone throws a ball. I know that F=ma, but the only force acting on a ball is the force of gravity and so the equation simply cancels out.
 
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  • #2
Clarisse said:
I’m trying to calculate how hard someone throws a ball. I know that F=ma, but the only force acting on a ball is the force of gravity and so the equation simply cancels out.
You might want to rethink that.
 
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  • #3
Clarisse said:
...the only force acting on a ball is the force of gravity...
Um...then what is this?:
...someone throws a ball...
 
  • #4
At the start of the throw the ball held in your hand is static . At the end of the throw when the ball leaves your hand it is moving . What has happened to the ball during this time ?
 
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1. What is the formula for calculating force on a thrown ball?

The formula for calculating force on a thrown ball is Force = mass x acceleration. This means that the force applied to the ball is directly proportional to its mass and the acceleration it experiences.

2. How do you measure the mass of a thrown ball?

The mass of a thrown ball can be measured using a scale or balance. The ball should be placed on the scale and its weight in grams or kilograms can be recorded. The mass of the ball is an important factor in calculating the force applied to it.

3. What is the unit of force used in this calculation?

The unit of force used in this calculation is the Newton (N). This is the unit of measurement for force in the International System of Units (SI).

4. How do you calculate the acceleration of a thrown ball?

The acceleration of a thrown ball can be calculated using the equation Acceleration = (final velocity - initial velocity) / time. The initial velocity can be measured by timing the ball's movement with a stopwatch, and the final velocity can be determined by measuring the distance the ball travels.

5. Is air resistance a factor in calculating the force on a thrown ball?

Yes, air resistance can be a significant factor in calculating the force on a thrown ball. As the ball moves through the air, it experiences resistance from the air molecules which can affect its acceleration and ultimately the force applied to it. This is why the mass and shape of the ball should also be taken into consideration when calculating force.

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