PHYSICS OF HOCKEY MICHAEL TILLY UAF PHYSICS 211
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Hockey Puck Physics

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Wrist Shot

Unlike the slap shot, which is built for power; the wrist shot is meant to be accurate. A reason that the wrist shot is so accurate is caused by thee gyroscopic effect that the puck has as it flies through the air.
Projectile Motion

When a puck is shot, it travels in the path of a parabola. The force of gravity works against the puck until the puck reaches its maximum height, and then begins to come down again. Hopefully into the net.
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Gyroscopic Effect

The wrist shot is the most accurate shot in the game of hockey. The player can direct and aim the puck exactly where they want it to go. This is done by applying a spin to the puck as it is released to keep it stable as it is flying. The puck travels along the curve of the blade and gains angular motion until it is released. The more angular motion that the puck has, the greater the gyroscopic effect.
Flying Saucers

 Similar to throwing a football, a spinning puck is much faster than a puck with no spin. The puck is also more stable because it has less drag, thus exposing less surface area to the passing air.
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