Physics Demos: Two-Dimensional Motion

Overview

• Focus of the demo: Two-dimensional motion using steel balls.
• Objective: Compare the time it takes for two balls to hit the ground under different conditions.

Demo Setup

• Two steel balls used in the demonstration:
  • Ball 1: Dropped vertically.
  • Ball 2: Shot horizontally.

Key Questions

• Which ball hits the ground first?
  • Initial assumption might be that the horizontally shot ball would take longer due to its horizontal motion.

Results

• Both balls hit the ground at the same time.

Explanation

• Vertical Motion:
  • Both balls have an initial vertical velocity of 0 m/s.
  • They cover the same vertical displacement.
  • They fall at the same rate of 9.81 m/s² due to gravity.
• Independence of Motion:
  • Vertical motion is independent of horizontal motion.
  • The horizontal velocity of the second ball does not affect its vertical descent.

Conclusion

• Both balls, regardless of their horizontal motion, will hit the ground at the same time because their vertical motions are the same.