A wrecking ball is being used to knock down a building. One tall unsupported concrete wall remains standing. If the wrecking ball hits the wall near the top, how is the wall more likely to fall over?
If the wrecking ball hits the wall near the top, it is more likely to fall over due to the toppling effect. When the wrecking ball hits the top portion of the wall, it exerts a force that creates a moment around the base of the wall. This moment causes a torque or rotational force that tends to make the wall rotate or pivot at its base. This effect is similar to pushing a door from the top. As the wall rotates around its base, it loses its stability and balance, eventually leading to its collapse.
