9.10 Conservation of Energy: Translations and Rotations Pool Ball/Rail Collision

Explanation: As discussed in Section 9.10, the total mechanical energy is equal the sum of the rotational and translational kinetic energies. The effect of the impulse exerted by the rail depends on where it hits the ball. Along with the change in linear momentum, the force excerted by the rail can result in a torque, affecting the angular momentum of the ball. This simulation is a perfect example of how a seemingly simple motion is actually quite intricate.

Source: Thomas E. Wilson and Theron T. Trout