The aerodynamics of jumping rope

ORAL

Abstract

We present the results of a combined theoretical and experimental investigation of the motion of a rotating string that is held at both ends (i.e. a jump rope). In particular, we determine how the surrounding fluid affects the shape of the string at high Reynolds numbers. We derive a pair of coupled non-linear differential equations that describe the shape, the numerical solution of which compares well with asymptotic approximations and experiments. Implications for successful skipping will be discussed, and a demonstration is possible.

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Authors

  • Jeffrey Aristoff

    Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University, MAE-Princeton University, Princeton University

  • Howard A. Stone

    Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton University, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, MAE-Princeton University, Princeton university