Investigating airflow over shapes
In this activity, students investigate the aerodynamics of various shapes. They observe airflow over the shapes to find out which shape is likely to produce the least aerodynamic drag.
Aerodynamics and drag
Dr Mark Jermy and Lindsey Underwood explain what aerodynamics is and how it relates to competitive cycling.
By the end of this activity, students should be able to:
describe how airflow separation affects drag
test different shaped objects using a hairdryer and pieces of thread to find where airflow remains attached and where it becomes separated
identify shapes that create the least separation and relate this to which shapes will have the least drag.
Download the Word file (see link below) for:
introduction/background notes
what you need
what to do
discussion questions
extension ideas
student worksheets.
Related content
Using wind tunnels helps determine the aerodynamic drag around a cyclist.
Activity idea
The activity Aerofoils and paper planes also involves understanding the impact of shape on airflow.
