If we throw a ball with initial velocity v0, is there a force?

In summary, when throwing a ball with initial velocity v0 and ignoring air resistance, there is no force in the x direction as the value of v0x remains constant during the flight. However, there is a force in the y direction due to gravity. The direction of the force is downwards, causing the ball to fall straight down.
  • #1
annamal
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If we throw a ball with initial velocity v0, and the ball progresses in a projectile motion, ignoring air resistance, will there be a force in the x direction? If so, what is that force in the x direction's value mathematically? I know there is a force in the y direction due to gravity.
 
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  • #2
No force exists in the x direction, as the value of v0x remains the same during the flight (no acceleration).
 
  • #3
annamal said:
If we throw a ball with initial velocity v0, and the ball progresses in a projectile motion, ignoring air resistance, will there be a force in the x direction? If so, what is that force in the x direction's value mathematically?
More critically, what would be the direction of such a force?
 
  • #4
annamal said:
If we throw a ball with initial velocity v0
That's not much of a "throw". You are just releasing the ball, which will fall straight down.
 

FAQ: If we throw a ball with initial velocity v0, is there a force?

1. What is the relationship between initial velocity and force when throwing a ball?

The initial velocity of a ball is directly related to the force applied to it. The greater the initial velocity, the greater the force needed to achieve that velocity.

2. How does air resistance affect the force on a ball when thrown?

Air resistance acts in the opposite direction of the ball's motion and can decrease the force on the ball. This is why a ball thrown in a vacuum will travel farther than a ball thrown in the presence of air.

3. Is there a difference in force when throwing a heavier ball with the same initial velocity as a lighter ball?

Yes, the force needed to throw a heavier ball with the same initial velocity will be greater than the force needed to throw a lighter ball. This is due to the greater mass of the heavier ball.

4. Can the force on a ball change after it has been thrown?

Yes, the force on a ball can change after it has been thrown due to external factors such as air resistance, gravity, and collisions with other objects.

5. How does the angle of release affect the force on a thrown ball?

The angle of release can affect the force on a thrown ball. A ball thrown at a higher angle will have a greater force in the vertical direction due to the force of gravity, while a ball thrown at a lower angle will have a greater force in the horizontal direction.

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