Explain for each of the following, The Magnus force applies and how it causes an effect.
a. A car tire rotating while a car drives.
b. A tennis ball curves while moving towards the opposite side of the net.
c. A tennis ball changes directions when it hits the ground.
d. A soccer ball curves towards the net after being struck from the corner of the field.
Joe/Ruth/Jay, please use the same name for your posts.
concentrate on b and d.
a. A car tire rotating while a car drives:
The Magnus force applies to a car tire rotating while a car drives. When the car moves forward, the tire rotates, and this rotation creates spin on the tire. As the tire spins, there is air flowing over and around it. According to the Magnus effect, when a rotating object moves through a fluid medium, it experiences a force perpendicular to the direction of motion. In this case, the fluid medium is the air. The Magnus force acts perpendicular to the direction of the airflow around the rotating tire. This force creates a sideways force that we call "lateral force" or "side force." The lateral force affects the handling and stability of the car.
b. A tennis ball curves while moving towards the opposite side of the net:
When a tennis ball is hit with topspin, it rotates forward as it moves towards the opposite side of the net. As the ball rotates, it acquires angular momentum. This rotation creates different air pressures on either side of the ball. According to the Magnus effect, the difference in air pressure creates a Magnus force, which acts perpendicular to the direction of motion. In the case of topspin, the Magnus force pushes the ball downward, causing it to curve. This downward curve helps the ball clear the net and then dip rapidly, making it more challenging for the opponent to reach and return.
c. A tennis ball changes directions when it hits the ground:
When a tennis ball hits the ground, it experiences the Magnus force due to the spinning motion it had before the impact. When the ball bounces, its surface contacts the ground, and due to the friction between the ball and the ground, the spin is altered. As a result, the Magnus force changes direction. This change in the direction of the Magnus force causes the ball to change its trajectory after bouncing off the ground. It can lead to unpredictable bounces or curve the ball in a different direction compared to its original path.
d. A soccer ball curves towards the net after being struck from the corner of the field:
When a soccer ball is struck with sidespin from the corner of the field, it starts rotating as it moves toward the net. The rotation of the ball creates a difference in air pressure on either side. According to the Magnus effect, this difference in air pressure generates a force perpendicular to the direction of motion. In the case of sidespin, the Magnus force acts sideways, causing the ball to curve in a path toward the net. The amount of curve depends on the spin, speed, and other factors, but the Magnus force is responsible for the curving trajectory of the soccer ball.