Does the Ball Do Work on the Kid? Newton's Third Law Explained

In summary, according to Newton's 3rd law, the force of a ball on a kid is equal to the force of the kid on the ball. However, in this specific situation, it can be argued that the ball does not do work on the kid since the kid's hands do not move significantly when catching the ball.
  • #1
harp AP 2010
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0

Homework Statement


Newton's 3rd law says that a ball exerts as much force on a kid as the kid exerts force on the ball. Is it correct to say the ball does work on the kid?


Homework Equations


I don't think the ball does work because the kid is not moved by the ball.


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
If you think of it from the point of view of the kid's hands then there is some motion to the kid. He doesn't just catch it with his hands and they (his hands) stay still, rather they move back a certain distance, albeit a relatively small distance. So yes, the ball does do work on the kid.

*Sorry just realized that the situation didn't involve him catching the ball at all.*
 

FAQ: Does the Ball Do Work on the Kid? Newton's Third Law Explained

What is Newton's Third Law of Motion?

Newton's Third Law of Motion states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This means that when an object exerts a force on another object, the second object will exert an equal force in the opposite direction.

How does Newton's Third Law relate to a ball doing work on a kid?

When a ball is thrown at a kid, the ball exerts a force on the kid. According to Newton's Third Law, the kid will also exert an equal and opposite force on the ball. This means that the ball will not only do work on the kid, but the kid will also do work on the ball.

What is meant by "work" in the context of Newton's Third Law?

In this context, "work" refers to the transfer of energy from one object to another. When an object exerts a force on another object and causes it to move, work is being done.

Can you provide an example of Newton's Third Law in action?

Yes, a classic example of Newton's Third Law is a person rowing a boat. As the person exerts a force on the oar to push it through the water, the oar exerts an equal and opposite force on the water, propelling the boat forward.

How is Newton's Third Law important in understanding motion and forces?

Newton's Third Law is important because it helps us understand the relationship between forces and motion. It shows that forces always occur in pairs and that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. This is crucial in understanding how objects move and interact with each other.

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