What is the Difference Between Ball and Sphere?

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The main difference between a ball and a sphere lies in their definitions and the context in which they are used:

  • Sphere: A sphere is a geometrical object with a closed, two-dimensional surface embedded in three-dimensional Euclidean space. The surface is at a constant distance from a fixed point, known as the center. A sphere can refer to any object that is perfectly round in shape, including solid or hollow objects used in games or sports.
  • Ball: A ball is a three-dimensional object that is usually round and specifically refers to a toy or sports equipment that is round and can be played with. In topology, a ball refers to the space inside a (topological) sphere.

In summary, all balls are spheres, but not all spheres are balls. While spheres are perfectly round objects with no edges or corners, balls are round objects used for play or sport.

Comparative Table: Ball vs Sphere

The main differences between a ball and a sphere are summarized in the following table:

Feature Ball Sphere
Definition A ball is a three-dimensional object that is round and usually used for play or sport. A sphere is a perfectly round three-dimensional object.
Dimensions A ball is a solid or hollow object with three dimensions. A sphere is a three-dimensional object with a curved surface and no edges or corners.
Surface The surface of a ball is the outer skin or covering of the object. The surface of a sphere is a continuous curve.
Volume A ball has volume, which is the space inside the object. A sphere has volume, given by the formula V = (4/3)Ï€r^3, where r is the radius of the sphere.
Usage Balls are specifically used in games or sports. Spheres can refer to any object that is perfectly round in shape and are not limited to usage in games or sports.

In conclusion, while both balls and spheres refer to round objects, they have distinct meanings and characteristics. A ball is a solid or hollow object used in games or sports, while a sphere is a three-dimensional object with a curved surface and no edges or corners.