Did a Rock Hit Your Windshield, or Did Your Windshield Hit a Rock?
Briefly

The behavior of objects like rocks when falling or rolling reflects important principles of physics. When a rock drops, its horizontal velocity decreases, but air drag and energy loss create lower bounces. A rotating irregularly shaped rock can occasionally bounce higher due to energy transfers between its rotational and translational kinetic energy. Moreover, rocks can be displaced by vehicles, such as when wedged in tires, highlighting how interaction with surfaces can affect movement and potentially cause windshield damage.
A rock's motion can change due to friction with the road and its irregular shape, which can result in unexpected energy transfers.
When a rock is wedged between tire treads and contacts the ground, it can appear to bounce back while still being at rest.
Read at WIRED
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