Tennis ball rebounding off the wall question

In summary, a tennis ball with a mass of 0.057 kg is hit by a professional player with a speed of 50 m/s and bounces back with the same speed after hitting a wall. The ball is crushed about 2 cm at the moment when its speed is momentarily zero. The average speed of the ball during the period from first contact with the wall to the moment its speed is zero is equal to 50 m/s. The time elapsed between first contact with the wall and coming to a stop is unknown. The magnitude of the average force exerted by the wall on the ball during contact is unknown, but it can be assumed to be constant. The magnitude of the gravitational force of the Earth on the ball is also
  • #1
rk1991
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Homework Statement


A tennis ball has a mass of 0.057 kg. A professional tennis player hits the ball hard enough to give it a speed of 50 m/s (about 112 miles per hour.) The ball moves toward the left, hits a wall and bounces straight back to the right with almost the same speed (50 m/s). As indicated in the diagram below, high-speed photography shows that the ball is crushed about 2 cm at the instant when its speed is momentarily zero, before rebounding.

Assume that the large force the ball exerts on the wall is approximately constant during contact.


Homework Equations


What is the average speed of the ball during the period from first contact with the wall to the moment the ball's speed is momentarily zero?

How much time elapses between first contact with the wall, and coming to a stop? (ans in seconds)

What is the magnitude of the average force exerted by the wall on the ball during contact?

In contrast, what is the magnitude of the gravitational force of the Earth on the ball? (ans in N)


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
What equations do you think are relevant to this problem?

This problem describes a collision between two objects. What is quantities come into play when you have a collision?

How do you find average speed? Does the ball accelerate after it touches the wall? If so, how can you find the average acceleration?

What are your thoughts on all of the above?
 

Related to Tennis ball rebounding off the wall question

1. How does the angle of the wall affect the rebound of a tennis ball?

The angle of the wall can greatly affect the rebound of a tennis ball. A steeper angle will result in a higher and faster rebound, while a flatter angle will result in a lower and slower rebound. This is due to the angle of incidence being equal to the angle of reflection, as stated in the law of reflection.

2. What is the relationship between the speed of the ball and its rebound off the wall?

The speed of the ball before it hits the wall will determine its speed after the rebound. According to the law of conservation of energy, the total energy of the ball before and after the rebound must be the same. Therefore, a ball that is hit with a higher initial speed will rebound with a higher speed as well.

3. How does the material of the wall affect the rebound of a tennis ball?

The material of the wall can greatly impact the rebound of a tennis ball. A harder and smoother surface, such as concrete, will result in a higher and faster rebound, while a softer and rougher surface, such as carpet, will result in a lower and slower rebound. This is due to the amount of energy absorbed or reflected by the surface upon impact.

4. What factors can influence the accuracy of a tennis ball rebounding off the wall?

There are several factors that can influence the accuracy of a tennis ball rebounding off the wall. These include the angle of the wall, the speed and angle at which the ball is hit, the material of the wall, and any obstructions or imperfections on the wall's surface. Wind or air resistance can also affect the trajectory of the ball.

5. Can the rebound of a tennis ball off the wall be used to improve skills in the sport?

Yes, practicing with a tennis ball rebounding off the wall can be a useful tool for improving skills in the sport. It can help with hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and control of the ball. However, it should not be the only form of practice, as playing against an opponent on a real court can provide a more realistic and dynamic experience.

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