Kelley is playing pool and hits a cue into the nine ball which directly in the center of the pool table. The nine ball travels
in a straight line towards the pocket.
in a straight line path from the point of contact with the cue ball.
To determine how far the nine ball travels after being hit by the cue, we need to consider a few factors, such as the force applied by Kelley, the angle at which the cue strikes the nine ball, and potential collisions with other balls or the sides of the pool table.
1. Force Applied: The force Kelley applies to the cue ball will greatly influence how far it travels. A stronger hit will cause the cue ball to travel further, while a softer hit will result in less distance covered.
2. Angle of Impact: The angle at which the cue ball is struck will determine the direction in which it travels. For example, a direct hit in the center of the cue ball will likely result in a straight trajectory, while an offset or angled impact may cause the cue ball to deflect off-course.
3. Collisions: During its journey across the pool table, the cue ball might collide with other balls or the sides of the table. These collisions can alter the initial trajectory and determine how far the nine ball ultimately travels.
Given the lack of specific details in the question, it is difficult to provide an exact answer. Pool is a game of skill, strategy, and physics, where each shot's outcome depends on multiple factors. The distance the nine ball travels will vary based on the specific circumstances of the shot, including Kelley's skill level, the condition of the pool table, and other environmental factors.