Fluids Physic

Question

Suppose a pitcher wants to throw a baseball so that it rises as it approaches the batter. How should the ball be spinning to accomplish this feat? Explain.

Answer 1

To rise, the baseball has to have a lower pressure on the top of the ball compared to the bottom of the ball.  The air pressure is lower when air travels faster.

 

To accomplish a rise in the ball, give it a topspin that spins downward as it approaches the batter.  The air that goes over the top of the ball will move faster over it than the air that is going under it.  The air pressure above is lower than the air pressure below.  This causes the ball to rise.