GRADES 9-12
AERODYNAMICS OF CYCLING

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: What Is Aerodynamics? Aerodynamics is a branch of physical science. The word is derived from the Greek words "aero" meaning air, atmosphere or gas and "dynamikos" meaning powerful. Dynamics is the study of forces and the motions those forces cause. Aerodynamics deals with the motion of gases (like air) and with the forces produced by those gases on moving or stationary objects. Examples of objects in motion affected by aerodynamics include airplanes, cars, birds, bats, gliding vehicles (glider, sailplane) and gliding animals. Examples of stationary objects affected by aerodynamics include buildings, bridges and a cyclist in a wind tunnel. Aerodynamic Forces Affect Bats, Sailplanes And Bridges With Permission and Courtesy Of Cislunar Aerospace, Inc. Aerodynamics affects athletic performance in many sports: golf, tennis, baseball, running, skiing, windsurfing, sailing, kite boarding, archery, shooting, racecars, javelin, discus, cycling, the boomerang and many more. Aerodynamic Forces Affect Racecars, Cyclists and Baseballs With Permission and Courtesy Of Cislunar Aerospace, Inc.