An experimental study of Wiffle ball aerodynamics

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Abstract
  • We measure the aerodynamic forces on a Wiffle ball as a function of the Reynolds number and ball orientation. The effects of asymmetric flow outside the ball and flow within the ball are considered, and are both associated with the ball’s tendency to curve without pitcher-imparted spin. The problem of Wiffle ball aerodynamics is an accessible way to introduce topics such as boundary layer separation and transition to turbulence.
TitleAn experimental study of Wiffle ball aerodynamics
CreatorRau, A.
Rossmann, Jenn Stroud
PublisherAmerican Journal of Physics
Academic DepartmentMechanical Engineering
DivisionEngineering
OrganizationLafayette College
Date IssuedDecember 2007
Date Available2015-03-23T14:56:12Z
TypeArticle
LanguageEnglish
Bibliographic CitationRossmann, J. S. and A. Rau (2007 Dec.) "An experimental study of Wiffle ball aerodynamics." American Journal of Physics 75 (12): 1099-1105.
Standard IdentifierDOI 10.1119/1.2787013
Handle 10385/1741
Permalinkhttp://hdl.handle.net/10385/1741
Rights Statement In Copyright In Copyright
Rights HoldersAmerican Association of Physics Teachers
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