Short Wave After 20 Years, This Scientist Uncovered The Physics Behind The Spiral Pass
Feb 7, 2024
Discover the fascinating physics behind the perfect spiral pass in football. A dedicated physicist spent two decades unraveling the mystery of how these throws seem to defy gravity. Enjoy a lively discussion filled with insights on aerodynamics, Newton's laws, and the intricate balance of forces involved. Hear about late-night debates with fellow scientists and the breakthrough that finally brought clarity to this sports puzzle. It's a compelling blend of science and sport that reveals how physics shapes the game we love.
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The Unanswered Question
- Tim Gay gave a lecture on football physics, and Nobel laureate Bill Phillips asked why spiral passes turn over.
- Tim couldn't answer, sparking a 20-year research quest.
Physics of Football
- Classical physics, especially Newton's laws, governs football.
- A quarterback flying after a tackle demonstrates Newton's second and third laws.
The Tilt Mystery
- The football nose tilting down contradicts basic physics, which suggests it should stay upright or rotate.
- Existing theories, like the spinning top analogy, failed to explain this phenomenon.