Which statements are correct for the idealized Magnus effect on a spinning ball moving through a fluid?
Select all that apply

Question

Which statements are correct for the idealized Magnus effect on a spinning ball moving through a fluid?

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Spin changes the relative motion of the ball surface and the surrounding fluid. Therefore the fluid-speed distribution can become asymmetric. In the simplified pressure picture, the unequal speeds create unequal static pressures. The resulting pressure force is transverse to the forward motion. If the spin direction is reversed, the side with the higher fluid speed is reversed, so the transverse force direction also reverses. Thus A, B, C and D are all correct.