Why do we need the vertical distance that a bouncing ball traveled?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the necessity of calculating the total vertical distance traveled by a bouncing ball, emphasizing its relevance in various contexts, such as practical applications or academic inquiries. Participants highlight that the total horizontal distance can be determined by multiplying horizontal speed by the time until the ball comes to rest. The conversation also points out the importance of providing a complete problem statement for clarity in analysis. Overall, understanding these calculations is essential for accurate trajectory analysis.

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  • Research kinematic equations for vertical and horizontal motion
  • Learn about data analysis techniques for trajectory measurements
  • Explore methods for calculating total distance in projectile motion
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Students studying physics, educators teaching motion concepts, and anyone involved in experimental analysis of projectile trajectories.

Tizyo
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1. Homework Statement

1.Main question: Why would anyone need to know the total VERTICAL distance traveled by a bouncing ball?

2.Other question: Does anyone have a link to an explanation (or could explain themselves) on how to calculate the total HORIZONTAL distance traveled by a bouncing ball?

3. The Attempt at a Solution

For the second question, I have filmed and analysed (plotted the points) of a few trajectories, so I have the values, I just need to explain why i got those values and I don't know how..
 
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Tizyo said:
1. Homework Statement

1.Main question: Why would anyone need to know the total VERTICAL distance traveled by a bouncing ball?
Depends on the context.
For instance, someone could be paying you to find out.
(Have you tried to find it? The reason usually becomes clear when you do.)

2.Other question: Does anyone have a link to an explanation (or could explain themselves) on how to calculate the total HORIZONTAL distance traveled by a bouncing ball?
It is the horizontal speed multiplied by the time to come to rest ... or some other approach depending on your data.

Please note: apart from the question, no problem statement has been attached.

3. The Attempt at a Solution

For the second question, I have filmed and analysed (plotted the points) of a few trajectories, so I have the values, I just need to explain why i got those values and I don't know how..
You got those values because those are the ones you filmed <puzzled>.

I think you need to provide a more complete description of the problem you are facing, but it sounds like you are over-thinking things.
 

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