Question

Two playground balls, the type used in the game of dodgeball, are inflated to different levels but have the same mass. One is fully inflated and the other is flat. If you had to get hit with one ball, which one would you prefer. Why?

If you are playing dodgeball, is dodging a ball easier than dodging a wrench? Explain.

Answer 1

If one was to get hit with the ball then one should prefer the ball which is comparatively flat because the flat ball would impart all its initial momentum to the player and thereby the player will experience some force . ∆p = m(0-u) = -mu

But if the player gets hit with more inflated ball , then the ball would impart double momentum as compared to the flat ball because this ball would bounce back with same velocity in opposite direction as it's initial direction of motion.

∆p = m(-u -u ) = -2mu , therefore this ball will exert a greater force and cause more harm .

Please ask your doubts or queries in the comment section below.

Please kindly upvote if you are satisfied with the solution.

Thank you.