Force vs Time Collision: Find Speed of 66-g Tennis Ball

In summary, the conversation discusses the contact force versus time during the collision of a tennis ball with a wall and how to calculate the speed of the ball after the collision. The impulse, which is equal to the change in momentum, is mentioned as a key factor in finding the new velocity. The conversation ends with a question about dividing the impulse by the mass to get the new velocity.
  • #1
bkhofmann
17
0

Homework Statement


The Figure shows an approximate representation of the contact force versus time during the collision of a 66-g tennis ball with a wall. The initial velocity of the ball is 4.375E+1 m/s perpendicular to the wall. What is the speed of the tennis ball after the collision?
(see attached)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Not sure how to start, I know the impulse is the area under the curve, that's all. Thanks
 

Attachments

  • prob04v7.gif
    prob04v7.gif
    15.5 KB · Views: 470
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
And the impulse is also equal to the change in momentum.
 
  • #3
Ok, having a real brain fart. What do I need to do with the impulse to get the new velocity?
 
  • #4
impulse=(final momentum)-(initial momentum)
momentum=m*v
 
  • #5
So just divide the Impulse by the mass?
 
  • #6
If you just divide, you'll get the difference between the two speeds. Is the problem asking for just this?
 

FAQ: Force vs Time Collision: Find Speed of 66-g Tennis Ball

How do you calculate the speed of a 66-g tennis ball in a force vs time collision?

The speed of an object can be calculated by dividing its momentum by its mass. In this case, the momentum of the ball can be found by multiplying its mass (66 g) by its velocity. The velocity can then be determined by using the force vs time graph and finding the slope of the line.

What is the relationship between force and time in a collision?

The force vs time graph shows the amount of force exerted on an object over a period of time. In a collision, the force increases rapidly as the objects come into contact, and then decreases as the objects separate. The area under the force vs time graph represents the impulse, which is equal to the change in momentum of the object.

How does the mass of the tennis ball affect its speed in a collision?

According to Newton's second law, the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the force applied and inversely proportional to its mass. This means that a lighter object, such as a 66-g tennis ball, will have a greater acceleration and therefore a higher speed in a collision compared to a heavier object with the same force applied.

Can the speed of the tennis ball be determined using only the force vs time graph?

Yes, the speed of the tennis ball can be determined by finding the slope of the force vs time graph. The slope represents the acceleration of the ball, and by using the equation v = u + at, the initial velocity (u) and time (t) can be determined, thus calculating the final speed of the ball.

Are there any other factors that can affect the speed of the tennis ball in this collision?

Yes, there are other factors that can affect the speed of the tennis ball in a collision, such as air resistance, friction, and the elasticity of the objects involved. These factors can cause the speed to vary from the calculated value, but can be taken into account to improve the accuracy of the result.

Back
Top