Why does this happen - when a football is kicked, its volume decreases?

Question

Layla Ahmed · Accepted Answer

Kicking the football depresses the skin of the football, which simultaneously decreases the volume of the football and increases the pressure of the air inside the football.

There is a gas law of the form: #PV=nRT# R is a constant and n can be assumed constant. T is also probably constant since this occurring in a single environment. As the amount of air inside the football is probably unchanged. This leaves us with P and V that could vary. When a football is kicked, its skin will be depressed which decreases the volume of the football (V decreases). Simultaneously, the pressure of the air inside of the ball will increase (P increases).

Adrian Ayala · Answer

undefined When a football is kicked, its volume decreases due to the force applied to it by the kicker's foot. This force compresses the air inside the football, causing it to occupy a smaller volume momentarily. The compression of the air inside the football leads to a decrease in its overall volume until the air pressure inside and outside the ball equalizes again.

HIX Tutor · Answer

undefined When a football is kicked and its volume seems to decrease, it usually means:

1. **Air Pressure**: The ball might lose some air when kicked hard. 
2. **Shape Change**: The ball squishes a bit when hit, making it look smaller.
3. **Temperature**: If it’s cold, the air inside gets denser, making it feel flat.

To check the ball:

1. Look for any holes.
2. Feel if it’s soft.
3. Pump it with air if it feels flat.

That’s why it seems to change!