What makes a basketball bounce?

Answer by  DrHarris (508)

Elasticity, which is the measure of how well an object "springs back" when under pressure. Rubber has high elasticity, which means when it hits the ground, it springs back easily.

Answer by  bram (14)

Whenever a basketball hits the ground, it is compressed just like a snowball hitting a wall. However, unlike a snowball, the basketball is elastic and tends to return to its original shape. This puts force on the floor, pushing the basketball back up.

Answer by  sherryk (621)

I'm only guessing about this, but it may have something to do with the theory that every action has a equal and opposite reaction. The force used to hit the floor creates an equal force in return? Food for thought!