The effect of aerodynamics on table tennis

Abstract

In the table tennis sport category, the different spin formula of table tennis ball will show different motion state, in which the important physical knowledge that is permeated aerodynamics. Besides the effect of aerodynamics, the balls can obtain different trajectories because of Magnus effect and Bernoulli principle. By using these three mainly professional knowledge, this paper analyzed the forces that the top-spin ball and back-spin ball acquired. What is more, the movement of side spin balls also be introduced through these professional knowledge. In addition to these analysis, 40mm and 38mm table tennis balls are compared in the paper. By using the principle of physical mechanics to reveal the secret and mechanism of the spin of table tennis ball, it provides a theoretical basis for improving the spin skill of table tennis ball.