# A footballer kicks a stationary ball. The ball accelerates across a grass pitch and then gradually slows down before stopping. Explain why the ball accelerates when kicked and why it eventually stops, using Newton's laws of motion.

> Eduqas A-Level Physics — 1.2 Forces and Newton's laws · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. When kicked, there is a resultant (unbalanced) force acting on the ball
2. A resultant force causes acceleration (Newton's Second Law)
3. Once the ball is rolling, friction (from the grass) acts on the ball in the opposite direction to motion
4. This friction is a resultant force acting on the ball, causing it to decelerate
5. When the ball is stationary, forces are balanced (Newton's First Law) so it remains at rest

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Physics](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-footballer-kicks-a-stationary-ball-b3faaa12) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.