Pool Ball Reflection VideoLab

In this experiment you investigate the motion of a pool ball that rebounds from the cushion. The object is to measure the angle of reflection and amount of energy and momentum lost in the collision.

The equipment consists of a single pool ball of mass 500 grams and a standard pool table.

Run the movie above to observe the motion. Click on the link below to go to the lab.

•You will need the x versus t, y versus t, and x versus y data. Paste the data into a spreadsheet to analyse the motion.

What can you conclude from the motion?