A bouncing ball on a sinusoidally vibrating table is an example of a chaotic system. In such a system, the motion of the ball is altered by a series of deflections as well as the other forces, such as gravity.
The study of the dynamics of a bouncing ball on a sinusoidally vibrating table is a useful teaching example about the behavior of chaotic systems. In addition to its pedagogical value, the system is also of practical interest in several engineering applications, as well as in basic research.
Famous quotes containing the words ball and/or dynamics:
“‘Throw down the ball, ye Jew’s daughter,
Throw down the ball to me!’
‘Never a bit,’ says the Jew’s daughter,
‘Till up to me come ye.’”
—Unknown. Hugh of Lincoln (l. 13–16)
“Anytime we react to behavior in our children that we dislike in ourselves, we need to proceed with extreme caution. The dynamics of everyday family life also have a way of repeating themselves.”
—Cathy Rindner Tempelsman (20th century)