How Do You Measure and Understand Spin in Table Tennis?

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    Physics Table Tennis
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on measuring and understanding spin in table tennis, specifically how it relates to physics concepts such as the Bernoulli principle and the Magnus effect. Participants clarify that spin can be quantified in revolutions per minute (RPM) and that both the Bernoulli principle and the Magnus effect are relevant to understanding the behavior of a spinning ball. The Magnus effect describes the rotation-induced pressure differential around the ball, while the Bernoulli principle explains the relationship between velocity and pressure in fluid dynamics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, including fluid dynamics.
  • Familiarity with the Bernoulli principle and its applications.
  • Knowledge of the Magnus effect and its role in sports physics.
  • Ability to measure rotational speed, specifically in revolutions per minute (RPM).
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to calculate spin using RPM measurements in table tennis.
  • Explore the practical applications of the Bernoulli principle in sports.
  • Investigate the Magnus effect in detail, particularly its implications in various sports.
  • Study experimental methods for measuring spin on table tennis balls.
USEFUL FOR

Table tennis players, physics students, sports scientists, and anyone interested in the physics of ball dynamics and spin measurement.

Confuzzled
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Hello, I’ve become a keen table tennis player, of which i study physics at A-level, and was hoping to the physics on table tennis, as i have been taught little relevant research on the subject. Of which iv decided to do some research of my own into the subject.
I have found lots of information on the physics of table tennis but cannot find any relevant information on spin. I want to know how to measure the spin of a table tennis ball? and what it is measured in? I assume it would be revs or torque?
Regards

EDIT: Also what is related to this question i have brought up, the bernoulli principle? or the magnus effect or both? As i was doing my research got the picture that it was the bernoulli principle, but i then brought this up with my physics teacher who said to go and research the magnus effect? If any could clarify for me as both laws seem the same? what is the difference
Regards
 
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Confuzzled said:
EDIT: Also what is related to this question i have brought up, the bernoulli principle? or the magnus effect or both? As i was doing my research got the picture that it was the bernoulli principle, but i then brought this up with my physics teacher who said to go and research the magnus effect? If any could clarify for me as both laws seem the same? what is the difference
Regards

Both. You see, the magnus effect sets up a boundary layer of rotating air around the ball. This boundary layer then interacts with air outside the boundary layer, in a manner which creates a pressure differential as per the Bernoulli effect.
 

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