In the Olympic questions series, researchers from the University of Twente explore how technology, systems and human behaviour shape elite sport. The series offers a scientific perspective on what happens behind Olympic performance, and what that means beyond medals and results. This time I combine it with a (double) Kees Study. In this episode, Professor of Aerodynamics Kees Venner demonstrates why air resistance is so important in speed skating.
His department manages the wind tunnel and conducts extensive research into air currents. From speed skaters to aeroplanes: everything revolves around the question of how to make the air flow as efficiently as possible.
Why is air resistance so important?
When a ice skater flies across the ice, he or she must constantly push the air aside. The higher the speed, the greater the air resistance. At top speeds during the Olympic Games, most of the opposing force consists of air resistance. This means that even small improvements in posture or suit can result in significant time savings. In the wind tunnel, it is possible to measure exactly how much resistance a person encounters. By using smoke or sensors, it is possible to see how the air curves around the body. Behind a skater, eddies are created: swirling air currents that pull you along, as it were. The larger the eddies, the greater the resistance.
How material and makes the difference
A surprising aspect of aerodynamics is the effect of material. You would think that the smoothest possible suit is always best. But rougher material often works better. This ensures that the air continues to flow tightly around the body for longer. As a result, the air currents release less quickly and smaller vortices are created behind the skater. Fewer vortices means less air resistance. They can test different materials in the wind tunnel.
Can I become faster?
Of course, I also step into the wind tunnel myself. However, I am not a good enough ice skater to notice the effect of an aerodynamic skating suit. For that, you need to reach Olympic speeds. This episode shows that top-level sport is all about physics. In the wind tunnel, it becomes clear that those who understand the air can skate faster.
