Physics Mystery: Airplane & Cow on String

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    Airplane String
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics experiment involving a model airplane and a cow, both powered by motors, which consistently rotate in a clockwise direction when suspended from a string. Participants speculate that the asymmetrical wing structure may contribute to this unidirectional motion. The phenomenon highlights principles of aerodynamics and torque, suggesting that the design of the wings influences the rotational behavior of the objects. Further exploration into the mechanics of flight and forces acting on the models is warranted.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of aerodynamics
  • Familiarity with torque and rotational motion
  • Knowledge of forces acting on flying objects
  • Concept of asymmetrical wing design
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of torque in rotational dynamics
  • Explore the effects of wing design on flight stability
  • Study the mechanics of circular motion in physics
  • Investigate the role of asymmetry in aerodynamic performance
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators teaching aerodynamics, and hobbyists interested in model aircraft design will benefit from this discussion.

MathHelp
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In our physics class the teacher has an airplane and a cow both powered by a simple motor, the cow flaps its wings while the plane just has a propeller at the back. However in both cases when the objects are attached to the ceiling by a string and turned on they only flying in a circular motion only one way (clockwise I think) And no matter what you do you can't make them spin the other way. Does anyone have a good physics explanation for this?
 
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Turn them around. :-D
 
whozum said:
Turn them around. :-D

No that's the thing, they only fly one way and if you push them the other way they go back to the other direction. I think it has something to do with one wing being higher than the other?
 

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