Sum sequence of a geometric series

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thekopite
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Homework Statement



A 'supa-ball' is dropped from a height of 1 metre onto a level table. It always rises to a height equal to 0.9 of the height from which it was dropped. How far does it travel in total until it stops bouncing?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



The consecutive heights which the ball attains form a geometric series with first term a=1 and common ratio 0.9. Using the formula for the sum to infinity of the series, I am left with S = a/(1-r) = 1/0.1 = 10 metres
However, the answer given is 19 metres. I don't understand how to get to this answer, is this just a typo?
 
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Hi thekopite! Welcome to PF :smile:

When the ball moves up 0.9h, it also comes down. You need to include that in your answer :wink:
 
Infinitum said:
Hi thekopite! Welcome to PF :smile:

When the ball moves up 0.9h, it also comes down. You need to include that in your answer :wink:

Each bounce of the ball has an identical coming down length. For example, if the ball bounces 0.9 metres, it will also come down 0.9 metres, traveling a total distance of 1.8 metres.
 
Millennial said:
Each bounce of the ball has an identical coming down length. For example, if the ball bounces 0.9 metres, it will also come down 0.9 metres, traveling a total distance of 1.8 metres.

Exactly...Except the first 1m fall :wink:Edit : Oops...I thought the OP posted.:rolleyes:
 
thanks, i get it know. feeling a little dumb.