Squash And Stretch Bouncing Ball In Maya

Improved version

This is the bouncing ball that is created with squash and stretch. I learn how to use a deformer to create a "squash effect" on the ball bouncing across the screen.

1) Why is squash and stretch so useful in animation?

I think it helps to give more life to the ball. The ball changes shape whenever it hits the ground. It is like a reaction from it. It is also more interesting to watch too.

2) Think of a situation in which extreme squash and stretch could be applied to a character - try to be original.

A baby is pinching/pulling her sister's cheek while she is carrying him. 

3) Think of an animation example where squash and stretch would NOT be appropriate.

A person playing baseball. The ball is hard and cannot be squashed and stretched.

4) If squash and stretch doesn't really happen so obviously in real life, why do you think is it so effective in animation?
(Look at the title of Disney animator Ollie Johnston's famous book about animation - do an Amazon search ... there's a clue in the title!)

I think it's effective in animation because it makes the animation more exaggerated.