Olympic ski jumpers speed down a big hill and launch themselves off a ramp into the air, hoping to achieve the farthest jump to beat their competitors. In this story, a physicist explains the science behind ski jumpers’ ability to stay in the air so long. She discusses how gravity, air pressure, the skiers’ body position, and their clothing impact their success. Listen to hear more about the physics behind Olympic ski jumpers’ amazing feats.
Note: Amy Pope's article about ski jumping was originally published by The Conversation and was republished by Smithsonian magazine.
Story Length: 2:37
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