When a ball hits a cup, the kinetic energy of the ball is transferred to the cup and the surrounding objects. This transfer of kinetic energy can result in several outcomes:
1. If the cup is rigid and immovable, the kinetic energy of the ball is converted into other forms of energy like sound or thermal energy. Some of the kinetic energy may also be transferred to the cup, causing it to vibrate momentarily.
2. If the cup is lightweight and movable, the kinetic energy of the ball can cause the cup to move. The cup may start rolling or bouncing, depending on the angle and speed of impact.
In both cases, the total mechanical energy (kinetic energy + potential energy) remains conserved, but the energy is redistributed among different objects involved in the collision.
What happens to the kinetic energy of a ball when it hits a cup?
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1 answer