Why differences surfaces affect how high a ball bounces?

Answer 1

Some surfaces absorb the impact of the ball, thus not "reflecting" the force upward.

If you try to bounce a ball on a matress it probably won't bounce much, because much of the impact is absorbed by the matress.

If you bounce a ball on the street. You will definetely see a much better response. This is because the ground is not very flexible and does not absorb impact, so most of the strength that is put into throwing the ball downwards is returned.

Answer 2

Yes. Energy absorbed by the surface, is energy that is not available for the bounce.

Answer 3

A softer ground, such as clay, will decrease the bounce of a tennis ball, a harder ground, such as concrete, will make the ball bounce higher.

Answer 4

Yes , it does

You could even try it yourself for proof. Bounce something on grass then on pavement, you will see a difference in how the softer the lower.