Calculating Force of Ball-Spring Collision

In summary, the force of a ball-spring collision can be calculated using F = kx, where F is the force, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement of the spring. It is affected by the mass of the ball, stiffness of the spring, and speed and angle of the collision. The spring constant can be determined by dividing the force by the displacement or using Hooke's Law. The force can be negative if the spring is compressed and the ball is moving away. The type of spring used can also affect the force, with a stiffer spring resulting in a higher force and a more flexible spring resulting in a lower force.
  • #1
AdvaitDhingra
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Let's assume I have a ball moving at a constant velocity and it collides with a spring and the spring compresses n cm. If I know how much mass the ball has and the spring constant D, how would I calculate the Force? I mean since F = dp/dt I would have to know the time in which the stopping occured. How can I solve this?
 
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  • #2
Do you want the maximum force, the average force (time-averaged, or distance-averaged), or the function ##F(t)##?
 
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FAQ: Calculating Force of Ball-Spring Collision

1. What is the formula for calculating the force of a ball-spring collision?

The formula for calculating the force of a ball-spring collision is F = kx, where F is the force, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement of the spring.

2. How do you determine the spring constant for a ball-spring system?

The spring constant can be determined by dividing the force applied to the spring by the displacement of the spring. This can be done by measuring the change in length of the spring when a known force is applied.

3. Can the force of a ball-spring collision be negative?

Yes, the force of a ball-spring collision can be negative if the spring is compressed and the force is acting in the opposite direction of the displacement. This can happen if the ball is moving towards the spring with a greater velocity than the spring can expand.

4. How does the mass of the ball affect the force of the collision?

The mass of the ball does not directly affect the force of the collision. However, a heavier ball may cause the spring to compress more, resulting in a larger displacement and therefore a greater force.

5. Can the force of a ball-spring collision be greater than the initial force applied?

Yes, the force of a ball-spring collision can be greater than the initial force applied if the spring is compressed and then released, causing it to exert a larger force on the ball upon impact. This is known as the spring's "rebound effect".

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