PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems · Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems
Problem
A billiard ball is struck horizontally so that, immediately after impact, it slides across the table felt with speed v0 but has negligible spin. Which of the following best describes the frictional interaction while the ball transitions to pure rolling motion?
(a) Kinetic friction acts opposite the ball’s motion, reducing both its translational and rotational speeds until the ball eventually comes to rest.
(b) Kinetic friction acts opposite the ball’s direction of motion, reducing its translational speed and increasing its rotation until rolling without slipping occurs, after which the friction becomes static and may be zero.
(c) Static friction acts opposite the ball’s motion, so the translational speed stays constant while rotation builds up until rolling occurs.
(d) Because the kinetic friction force is constant, the ball can never completely eliminate slipping; it approaches but never reaches true rolling without slipping.