suppose you are dropping a ball and measuring the height of its rebound. A problem with this experiment is that the you cant release the ball without applying some forced on it. what are some mechanical methods of releasing the ball ?

Question

mani_jha · Answer

Well, if you're very careful, you can release the ball without applying a measurable force.
But there is one mechanical method:
 Tie the ball to a string held in your hand. When you want to release the ball, just cut off the string with a scissor.
I will tell you if I come up with another

anonymous · Answer

thank you

vincent-lyon.fr · Answer

Use @Mani_Jha's idea, but burn the string instead of using scissors.
Scissors might exert a slight lateral push.

Other possibility is using an electromagnet if the ball is allowed to carry a small metal plate. Open the circuit and the ball will be released.

anonymous · Answer

that's a really good idea thanks