Question #230060

Explain how we can conclude that the ball-wall system is closed but not isolated.


Expert's answer

The wall runs in along y-axis, therefore it cannot change the x-component of the ball's momentum.


The x-component of the ball's momentum after the collision with with the wall is the same as before the collision:


Px=PxP_x'=P_x

The ball-wall system can exchange energy (as heat or work) but not matter, with its surroundings. Thus, the ball-wall system is closed but not isolated.


LATEST TUTORIALS
APPROVED BY CLIENTS