Bernoulli to explain Magnus Effect

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies that the Bernoulli equation does not adequately explain the Magnus Effect, as it relies on assumptions of inviscid and incompressible flow. Instead, the Magnus Effect is attributed to circulation and Newton's Third Law, which accounts for the pressure differences caused by air friction. The participants emphasize that Bernoulli's principle serves only as a calculation tool and is not the fundamental cause of the Magnus Effect. This distinction is critical for understanding fluid dynamics in applications involving spinning objects.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid dynamics principles
  • Familiarity with Bernoulli's equation and its limitations
  • Knowledge of Newton's Third Law of Motion
  • Concept of circulation in fluid flow
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  • Research the role of circulation in fluid dynamics
  • Study the implications of Newton's Third Law in aerodynamics
  • Explore advanced fluid dynamics concepts such as vorticity
  • Investigate real-world applications of the Magnus Effect in sports and engineering
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Students and professionals in physics, engineers focusing on aerodynamics, and anyone interested in the mechanics of spinning objects in fluid environments.

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Hi

I have been reading some internet articles that state the Bernoulli equation does NOT explain the Magnus Effect. The articles state that the effect is due to circulation (Bernoulli requires inviscid flows)

Could someone explain the cause of the Magnus effect without reference Bernoulli's equation?

In other words, I pieced this together from reading... If this is true, could someone elaborate and then explain the cause of the effect?Many attribute the effect to Bernoulli’s equation wherein fast moving fluid. However, Bernoulli’s principle doesn’t cause anything. It is a calculation scheme. It let's one calculate the pressure when you know the velocity. It has restrictions in its use. It is only valid along a streamline. It is only valid for inviscid flow (fluid with zero viscosity). It is only valid for incompressible flow (constant density fluid).The Bernoulli argument is somehow flawed because the velocity difference does not lead to pressure difference, it is the circulation that leads to pressure difference. Bernoulli principle always assumes no viscosity and vorticity.
 
Last edited:
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kuruman said:
Did you see this wikipedia article?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnus_effect
There is no mention of Bernoulli, just Newton's Third law which gives an intuitive explanation in terms of air friction.
Normally, I check wiki. this time, I did not. Thank you!
 

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