From ski jumping to speedskating, winter sports represent physics in action

From ski jumping to speedskating, winter sports represent physics in action

An understanding of angular momentum helps figure skaters glide across the ice and execute complex spins. AP Photo/Jeff RobersonDuring the 2026 Winter Olympics, athletes will leap off ramps, slide across ice and spin through the air. These performances will look different to my students who have studied physics through sports. These feats will be something the students have already measured, modeled or felt. As a physicist, I help my students se…