1. Gravity: This force always acts downwards, pulling the ball towards the center of the earth.
2. Normal Force: This force acts upwards from the surface the ball is resting on, counteracting the force of gravity and keeping the ball stationary.
3. Friction: This force opposes the motion of the ball as it rests on the surface. It's usually negligible in this scenario but can be more significant depending on the surface.
4. Applied Force (The throw): This is the force you exert on the ball when you throw it. It acts in the direction you throw the ball, overcoming the forces of gravity and friction.
5. Air Resistance (Drag): This force acts opposite to the direction of motion of the ball once it is in the air. It becomes more significant at higher speeds and affects the ball's trajectory.
When you are about to throw the ball, the main forces are:
* Gravity pulling it down.
* Normal Force pushing it up.
* Applied Force about to be exerted by you.
The moment you release the ball, the applied force ceases, and the ball begins moving under the influence of gravity and air resistance.