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Short Wave

Climate Change + Baseball = More Home Runs

Mar 25, 2025
Frederic Bertley, CEO of COSI and an expert in science communication, joins to explore the fascinating intersection of baseball and physics. He discusses how climate change is impacting gameplay, specifically increasing home run distances as pitch speeds rise. Bertley dives into the science of hitting home runs, emphasizing the importance of angle and energy transfer. He also highlights the significance of precision hitting over home runs, drawing intriguing parallels with academic success. It's a must-listen for sports fans and science enthusiasts alike!
12:08

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The physics of baseball involves principles such as projectile motion and pitch speed, which are influenced by atmospheric conditions like temperature.
  • Climate change significantly impacts baseball dynamics, increasing the frequency of home runs and faster pitches due to warmer air conditions.

Deep dives

The Intersection of Science and Baseball

The relationship between baseball and science is highlighted through the lens of physics, biochemistry, and anatomy. Baseball offers various scientific principles like projectile motion, notably in the mechanics of hitting and pitching. For instance, the speed of pitches can be influenced by temperature, where warmer air—less dense than cold—allows baseballs to travel faster, impacting game play. This scientific exploration not only enhances understanding but also engages sports fans by introducing complex concepts in an accessible manner.

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