The Physics of Sports Main Injector, 2 miles around Tevatron, 4 miles around Fermilab Physics explains things that are very, very large. Physics explains things that are very, very small. Physics explains things that are right in front of us. Newtons First Law Objects at rest remain at rest Objects in motion remain in motion UNTIL YOU APPLY A FORCE Newtons Second Law F = ma What forces are important in sports? Flight Path The Home Run Swing Ball arrives on 10 0 downward trajectory Big Mac swings up at 25 0 Ball takes off at 35 0 The optimum home run angle! Courtesy of A. Nathan, University of Illinois. Newtons 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 Conservation of Momentum Ball material, size, shape, and texture Properties of the club, bat, racquet, or stick Equipment features 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 Newtons Laws of Motion Conservation of Energy Conservation of Momentum These laws help us explain everything about sports. Physics really is everywhere! Visit FermilabBuffalo viewing Bicycling Walking Roller blading Canoeing Fishing Visit Fermilab Lederman Science Center Tours Saturday morning physics Ask a Scientist On-line activities: www-ed.fnal.gov The Physics of Sports