StarTalk Radio Things You Thought You Knew – The Fast and The Friction
Jul 8, 2022
Dive into the fascinating physics of sports! Discover the Magnus Effect and how it influences Randy Johnson's infamous fastball. Learn why golf balls lip out and the scientific reasons behind banked race tracks. The hosts tackle the dynamics of pitching and racing, emphasizing the role of spin, speed, and friction. With humor and insights, they explore athletic performance misconceptions, making you rethink everything you thought you knew about sports. It's a lively blend of science and entertainment that’ll keep you engaged!
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Episode notes
Rising Fastball Illusion
- The rising fastball in baseball is a deceptive pitch.
- It appears to rise, but actually doesn't defy gravity; it just falls slower than expected.
Randy Johnson's Bird Incident
- Randy Johnson once hit a bird with a baseball during a game.
- The bird exploded on impact, highlighting the power of a fastball.
Physics of Backspin
- Backspin on a baseball creates a pressure difference, affecting its trajectory.
- This Magnus Effect makes the ball fall slower than expected.