1. Elasticity:
Tennis balls are made of inflated rubber, which is highly elastic. This property enables them to store and release energy efficiently, resulting in higher bounces. When a tennis ball hits a surface, the stored energy in its rubber material causes it to rebound more dramatically.
2. Composition and Weight:
Tennis balls are typically lighter in weight compared to basketballs. The average weight range of a tennis ball is between 56 to 59 grams, while basketballs can weigh between 470 to 650 grams. Lighter objects generally bounce higher due to reduced gravitational forces acting upon them.
3. Surface Texture:
Tennis balls have a fibrous felt surface, which creates friction when it comes into contact with a hard surface. This friction enhances the ball's grip on the surface and contributes to its higher bounce. Basketball, on the other hand, has a smooth rubber or synthetic leather surface that reduces the level of friction, resulting in less bounce height.
4. Internal Pressure:
Tennis balls are pressurized, which maintains their round shape and increases their elasticity. The internal pressure helps them rebound with more force upon impact. Basketball do not have significant internal pressure, so their bounce is relatively lower.
5. Court Surface:
The type of court surface can also influence bounce height. Tennis balls are typically played on hard courts with rougher surfaces, which enhances ball grip and bounce. Basketball, on the other hand, can be played on a variety of surfaces, including wooden or synthetic indoor courts, as well as outdoor concrete surfaces. These different surfaces may vary in their levels of friction, affecting the ball's bounce height.
So, considering the factors mentioned above, a tennis ball with its elastic rubber material, lighter weight, fibrous felt surface, internal pressurization, and the typical court surfaces, bounces higher than a basketball.