The Physics of Sports Geneva Middle School 25 February 2010
Physics explains things that are very, very small.
Fermilab Accelerator Complex Tevatron, 4 miles around Main Injector, 2 miles around
Physics explains things that are very, very large.
Physics explains things that are right in front of us.
Newton’s First Law Objects at rest remain at rest Objects in motion remain in motion UNTIL YOU APPLY A FORCE
Newton’s Second Law F = ma What forces are important in sports?
Flight Path
The Home Run Swing Ball arrives on 10 0 downward trajectory Andre Dawson and Frank Thomas swing up at 25 0 Ball takes off at 35 0 The optimum home run angle! Courtesy of A. Nathan, University of Illinois.
Newton’s Third Law For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
Conservation of Energy Potential Energy Kinetic Energy Compression Energy Heat and Sound Energy
Conservation of Momentum If m 1 = m 2, then v 1 = v 2
Ball material, size, shape, and texture Properties of the club, bat, racquet, or stick Equipment features
How fast can you throw a ball?
Momentum transferred Energy stored and released David Rawlings, PGA Golf Professional
Hockey Slap Shot
Pole Vault Progress
Air Resistance (drag)
FRICTIONFRICTION
Resistance & Friction
The Power of Spin
Spins in Figure Skating
Reaction Time
Downhill skier speed: 80 mph
Reaction Time in Baseball Courtesy of R. Adair through A. Nathan.
Measure your reaction time…
Compare your reaction time… Equation used: t = √((2d)/g)
Physical laws explain the world Newton’s Laws of Motion Conservation of Energy Conservation of Momentum These laws help us explain everything about sports, but there is more to learn. Physics really is everywhere!
Visit Fermilab Buffalo viewing Bicycling Walking Roller blading Canoeing Fishing
Visit Fermilab Lederman Science Center Tours Saturday morning physics Ask a Scientist On-line activities: ed.fnal.gov
The Physics of Sports