Bouncy ball facts for kids
A bouncy ball is a fun toy that springs back when it hits a hard surface. These balls are usually small and round. They are made from special materials that are very elastic. This elasticity allows them to bounce high.
When you throw a bouncy ball, it moves with energy. This is called kinetic energy. When it hits a surface, it quickly changes direction. It keeps much of its energy, making it bounce back up. If you drop a ball, its stored energy (potential energy) turns into kinetic energy. This is what makes it rebound.
People have played with rubber balls for a very long time. Natural rubber first came from the Americas. Rubber balls were used there even before Europeans arrived. They were part of games like the ancient Mesoamerican ballgame. In 1495, explorer Christopher Columbus saw people in Haiti playing with a rubber ball. Bouncy balls are still a popular toy today.
Contents
What Makes Bouncy Balls Bounce?
Bouncy balls are special because of their elastic material. This material can stretch and return to its original shape very quickly. When a bouncy ball hits a hard surface, it squishes a little. Then, it quickly pushes back. This push-back action is what makes the ball bounce high. The harder the surface, the better the bounce.
The Science of the Bounce
When a bouncy ball hits the ground, it stores energy. This stored energy is then released. The ball pushes away from the surface. This causes it to spring upwards. Different materials make balls bounce differently. Some materials are more elastic than others. This means they can store and release more energy.
Types of Bouncy Balls
Over the years, many different kinds of bouncy balls have been created. Each type has its own unique features. Some are designed for specific games. Others are made to bounce extra high.
Spaldeen: A Classic Street Ball
The Spaldeen is a famous type of rubber ball. Its name comes from the company Spalding, which makes them. These balls are about the size of a tennis ball. They are often bright pink. Spaldeens have been made since the 1930s. They are still popular today.
Spaldeens were very important for American street games. Games like stickball became popular because of these balls. Other companies also made similar balls. One example is the Pensie Pinkie.
Superballs: The Ultimate Bounce
A superball, also called a power ball, is known for its incredible bounce. These balls are made from a special kind of synthetic rubber. This material was invented in 1964. It allows superballs to bounce much higher than older rubber balls.
If you drop a superball from a moderate height, it will bounce almost all the way back up. The Wham-O toy company first sold these balls. They called them Super Ball, which is still their official name. Superballs are often smaller than Spaldeens.
Other Fun Bouncy Balls
Many other types of bouncy balls exist. For example, Skyball is a brand of hollow ball. It is filled with a mix of helium and compressed air. The makers say this mix gives it a great bounce.
Nerf balls, first made in 1970, are also small and bouncy. However, they do not bounce as high as typical bouncy balls. This is because they are made from a softer foam material.
You can find bouncy balls with many different designs. Some look like miniature baseballs or soccer balls. Many companies offer these fun designs. Because they are inexpensive, bouncy balls are sometimes given away. Companies use them to promote their brands. These are called promotional merchandise.
Some bouncy balls can even light up! These are called glow balls. They might use special chemicals or small lights that turn on when they move. People also enjoy making their own bouncy balls. They can be made from many rubber bands. Or, they can be crafted using ingredients like borax, glue, and cornstarch. Bouncy balls are also often used in juggling acts.
See also
