Aerodynamics of a Boomerang

Physical science juniors will enjoy this sensational enrichment on aerodynamics, especially if they are also sports fans! With a focus on physical features and behaviors, collaborative groups make observations on five different golf...

This isn't the boomerang you're used to. Scholars first see how a commercial boomerang works. They then cut out a four-wing boomerang and test its flight to compare it to that of the commercial boomerang.

Students use the principles of technological and engineering design to research and explain how airfoil shape affects flight characteristics and how it applies to boomerang flight.. They will work in teams to design, build, test, and...

Throwing a curve ball can make or break a sporting game, but what is the scientific process for throwing this way? The video explains the Magnus force, aerodynamics, and the axis of rotation, and relates the science to both baseball and...

Throwing a ball through the air seems simple enough, so why do scientists study the effects of air on a sports ball? Veritasium presents a video in its playlist that explains the Magnus force to help athletes throw curve balls. It...

Demonstrate lift to the class that is studying aerodynamics. In the stream of air produced by a blow dryer, little physicists place a wad of tissue paper and a spherical figure to compare. Or, if you have a vacuum cleaner and beach ball,...

Using the Cartesian coordinate system, future flight experts plot points to determine whether or not an airplane will fly. With the four forces of weight, lift, drag, and thrust represented in different quadrants, your physics learners...

Those who take this challenge will draw force diagrams and then calculate velocities and displacement. The problems are applicable to any general physics curriculum that covers motion. Add this to your collection of homework selections. 

This lesson presents the basics of aerodynamics by using kite flying as an example, i.e., forces acting on a flying object. [39:36]

Learners are introduced to the physics of flight through video and PowerPoint presentations. They construct and fly model gliders and compete for height, distance, time, etc.