Question

If a bat with a mass of 5 kg and acceleration of 2 m/s2 hits a ball whose mass is 0.5 kg in the forward direction, what is the reaction force of the ball on the bat?

10 N, forward
0 N, forward
0.5 N, upward
10 N, backward

Answer 1

10 N , forward

Step-by-step explanation:

F=m×a

F= 5×2

F=10 N

Answer 2

10 N, backward

Step-by-step explanation:

Force exerted on the ball by the bat can be calculated according to newtons second law,

Force = mass × acceleration

Given mass of the ball = 5kg

Acceleration of the ball = 2m/s²

Force exerted on the ball= 5×2

Force exerted on the ball by the bat = 10N

If the force of 10N is applied on the ball by the bat in the forward direction, the reaction force of the ball on the bat will also be 10N but in the opposite direction (backward) to the direction of the bat according to newton's third law which states that actions and reaction are equal and opposite.