How Does Momentum Change When a Ball Bounces Off a Wall?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the change in momentum when a ball bounces off a wall. The initial momentum is represented as P1 = -mv, and the final momentum after the bounce is P2 = mv. The change in momentum is calculated as P2 - P1 = 2mv, confirming that the total change in momentum is indeed 2mv. The direction of the initial velocity is crucial, as it determines the sign of the momentum values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of momentum and its formula (P = mv)
  • Knowledge of vector quantities and their significance in physics
  • Familiarity with the concept of elastic collisions
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of elastic and inelastic collisions in physics
  • Learn about vector addition and subtraction in momentum calculations
  • Explore the concept of conservation of momentum in closed systems
  • Review examples of momentum change in different physical scenarios
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to momentum and collisions.

yamugushi
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1. Homework Statement
A ball is rolled into a wall and bounces back at the same speed, the change in momentum is?

2. Homework Equations
Ein = Eout

3. The Attempt at a Solution
I thought it was m(v) but I got it wrong (doing test corrections ATM)

Note I'm having trouble editing, so I made a new thread, I am not trying to spam.
 
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If the velocity before impact is v, what is the velocity after impact?

(remember, velocity is a vector quantity, so direction is important)
 
So it's be -mv... but there aren't any negative answers:
I have
0
1.5
.5
2
and what I answered MV (all above are times MV as well)
 
yamugushi said:
So it's be -mv... but there aren't any negative answers:

So momentum before is mv, and momentum after is -mv, so that change in momentum is ?
 
2mv?
 
yamugushi said:
2mv?

is that one of the answers?
 
rock.freak667 said:
is that one of the answers?

yes, the answers were:
0mv
1mv
1.5mv
.5mv
2mv
 
Just to note:

The original velocity must have been negative. The initial momentum was P_1=-mv.
Following the bounce, the final momentum is P_2=mv.
Hence the positive answer: P2-P1=2mv
Either way the magnitudes are the same.
 
Winzer said:
Just to note:

The original velocity must have been negative. The initial momentum was P_1=-mv.
Following the bounce, the final momentum is P_2=mv.
Hence the positive answer: P2-P1=2mv
Either way the magnitudes are the same.

Yes the magnitudes are the same, but it didn't have to be negative. It depends on the direction you choose as positive.
 

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