Why ball turns when rotated after being kicked.

  • Thread starter exquisitenick
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Ball
In summary, the experts discuss why a ball turns when kicked and explain that it is due to the Magnus effect caused by the different velocities of air on either side of the spinning ball. They also provide additional resources for further explanation and mention the interesting fact that on Mars, the ball would curve due to the planet's atmosphere.
  • #1
exquisitenick
2
0
Hello,
I have an unsolved question of an exam of my University.
The question is why a ball turns, when somebody kicks it by making it to rotate to itself.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
lol, doesn't really make sense. If you kick a ball head on ie perpendicular to the ball, then the ball will not spin. Unless there is unequal amounts of drag acting on either side, which is not really possible. The reason why a ball will spin is that the foot does not hit perpendicular to the surface and so give the ball some angular momentum.
 
  • #3
amppatel said:
lol, doesn't really make sense. If you kick a ball head on ie perpendicular to the ball, then the ball will not spin. Unless there is unequal amounts of drag acting on either side, which is not really possible. The reason why a ball will spin is that the foot does not hit perpendicular to the surface and so give the ball some angular momentum.

That does not even answer the question. The question was, why a spinning ball turns in flight like commonly seen in table tennis or banana kicks.

This is usually attributed to the Magnus effect, which is caused by the airflow, which has a different velocity compared to the center of the ball at both sides of the turning ball. However this also depends on some characteristics of the ball.

It is also described here: http://www.soccerballworld.com/Physics.htm
 
  • #5
Thank you very much!
 
  • #6
Interesting side note (at least, I hope it's interesting):

On Mars, the ball would curve http://www.space.com/scienceastronomy/mars_curveballs_030221.html" .
 
Last edited by a moderator:

1. Why does a ball turn when rotated after being kicked?

When a ball is kicked, it experiences a force that causes it to rotate. This rotation creates a difference in air pressure on either side of the ball, known as the Magnus effect. As a result, the ball will turn in the direction of the lower air pressure, causing it to curve or spin.

2. Is this effect only seen in certain types of balls?

No, the Magnus effect can be observed in any object that is rotating while moving through a fluid, such as air or water. However, it is most commonly seen in spherical objects, like balls, due to their symmetrical shape.

3. Can the direction of the spin be controlled?

Yes, the direction of the spin can be controlled by the way the ball is kicked. The angle and force of the kick, as well as the placement of the foot on the ball, can all affect the direction and amount of spin.

4. Does the surface of the ball affect its rotation?

Yes, the surface of the ball can have an impact on its rotation. A smooth, polished surface will create less friction with the air, resulting in a stronger and more consistent spin. On the other hand, a rough or uneven surface may cause the ball to wobble or spin irregularly.

5. Are there any other factors that can influence the ball's rotation?

Yes, there are several other factors that can affect a ball's rotation, such as the density and temperature of the air, the altitude, and even the rotation of the Earth. These factors can all impact the speed and direction of the ball's spin, making it difficult for players to predict and control.

Similar threads

  • Mechanics
Replies
6
Views
766
Replies
18
Views
956
Replies
30
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
1K
Replies
14
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
909
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Mechanics
Replies
10
Views
2K
Back
Top