Shouldb constant acceleration when simulating magnus effect?

In summary, the conversation discusses the coding of a game and the desire for a realistic curving of a projectile that is rotating and moving through the air. It is determined that the projectile should gain increasing rightward velocity with constant acceleration, and the question arises about whether the air affects the acceleration. The concept of energy conservation is also brought up, with the mention of the Magnus effect and how it affects the projectile's velocity. Ultimately, it is concluded that the question has been answered with further thought.
  • #1
WilkinzMicawber
9
0
I am coding a game in which I desire a projectile to undergo realistic curving when rotating while moving through the air. Let's consider the instance of a projectile that is initially moving forward while spinning clockwise along an axis placed vertically in it is center of mass. The object should gain increasing rightward velocity with constant acceleration, so that the path is a curve, correct? Should the rightward acceleration be constant through its entire trip, or does the air somehow act to change the acceleration as it moves?
 
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  • #2
WilkinzMicawber said:
Should the rightward acceleration be constant through its entire trip, or does the air somehow act to change the acceleration as it moves?
Is energy conserved?
 
  • #3
The magnus effect is created by the air drag, which opposes the forward velocity. So, as the ball slows, the effect should lessen.
 
Last edited:
  • #4
Aannndddd, with a little thought you've answered your question.
 

Related to Shouldb constant acceleration when simulating magnus effect?

1. What is the Magnus effect and how does it relate to constant acceleration?

The Magnus effect is the phenomenon where a spinning object experiences a lift force perpendicular to the direction of motion. This effect is important in sports such as soccer, baseball, and tennis, where spin is used to control the trajectory of the ball. In order for the Magnus effect to occur, the object needs to have a constant acceleration since the lift force is directly proportional to the angular velocity of the spinning object.

2. Can the Magnus effect be simulated without constant acceleration?

No, the Magnus effect cannot be simulated without constant acceleration. As mentioned earlier, the lift force is directly proportional to the angular velocity, which can only be achieved with constant acceleration.

3. How does the angle of spin affect the Magnus effect?

The angle of spin, also known as the angle of attack, plays a crucial role in the Magnus effect. The lift force is maximum when the angle of spin is 90 degrees, and it decreases as the angle decreases or increases. Therefore, in order to achieve maximum lift force, the angle of spin should be perpendicular to the direction of motion.

4. Are there any factors that can influence the magnitude of the Magnus effect?

Yes, the magnitude of the Magnus effect can be influenced by several factors. These include the speed of the object, the density of the fluid it is moving through, the shape and size of the object, and the surface roughness of the object. All of these factors can affect the lift force and therefore, the magnitude of the Magnus effect.

5. How is the Magnus effect important in real-world applications?

The Magnus effect has several real-world applications, particularly in sports and aerodynamics. It is used in sports such as soccer, baseball, and tennis to control the trajectory of the ball. In aerodynamics, the Magnus effect is utilized in the design of aircraft wings and propellers to increase lift and efficiency. It is also used in wind turbines to generate electricity.

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