Friction

Friction is the rubbing of two surfaces against each other. On the uneven bars the gymnasts use angular friction. Angular friction is found by coefficient multiplied by the two friction surfaces. By using chalk, it helps increase friction when the chalk absorbs sweat. Chalk also helps the gymnasts glide around the bar and helps prevent their hands from sticking to the bar.

Acceleration

Acceleration

 

 

Centripetal Acceleration = velocity squared / radius

 

 

The radius would be equal to the gymnast's height. Being short is favorable in gymnastics because it would make the radius smaller. Therefore, making the acceleration larger. Sometimes gymnasts will do the splits while swinging, reducing the radius and giving them a extra boost of speed. This speed is needed to switch bars and do certain tricks.

New Perspective

This week we decided that we're going to do a more theoretical perspective on the physics of uneven bars, then go into detail on one aspect.

Through a theoretical stand point we will address momentum, acceleration, velocity, and friction.

We will be collecting physical data and going in-depth with centripetal force.

Our decision to take a more theoretical perspective was inspired by this presentation:

http://prezi.com/pk5rhd6et9nn/physics-in-uneven-bars/

In summary, we will still be studying all the basic physics of uneven bars, but only gathering numbers for centripetal force.