Expert: - 2/27/2008

Question
If one delivers a lighter ball and a heavier ball with the same force, each will
start off with the same momentum--the greater velocity of the lighter ball
offsetting the greater mass of the heavier ball.

Does that mean that, assuming each ball meets the pins at the same point,
the effect will be the same for lighter and heavier ball?

Answer
Bob,
Each pin weighs 3 lbs and around 6 or 7 ounces.

As the pins resist the lighter ball, it loses contact with the surface of the lane more readily and deflects from the path it was on. Not the same case with the heavier ball.

Thanks for the question. This one sounds like physics homework.