A ball is thrown vertically upward. What is its momentum at the highes...
Momentum of a Ball Thrown Vertically Upward
Explanation
When a ball is thrown vertically upward, its velocity decreases until it reaches the highest point, where its velocity becomes zero. At this point, the ball has no kinetic energy, but it still has momentum due to its mass and direction of motion.
Calculation of Momentum
The momentum of an object is defined as the product of its mass and velocity. Since the velocity of the ball at the highest point is zero, its momentum can be calculated as:
Momentum = mass x velocity
Momentum = mass x 0
Momentum = 0
Therefore, the momentum of the ball at the highest point is zero.
Explanation of Zero Momentum
The fact that the ball has zero momentum at the highest point can be explained by the conservation of momentum. According to this principle, the total momentum of a system remains constant unless acted upon by an external force. In the case of the ball thrown vertically upward, the only force acting on it is gravity, which causes it to eventually fall back down to the ground.
At the highest point, the ball has reached its maximum height and is momentarily at rest. Since there is no external force acting on it, the total momentum of the system (ball + Earth) remains constant and is equal to zero.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the momentum of a ball thrown vertically upward is zero at the highest point. This is due to the fact that the ball has reached its maximum height and is momentarily at rest, with no external force acting on it. The conservation of momentum principle explains why the total momentum of the system remains constant and is equal to zero.