Skip to main content

The archer's paradox in slow motion

15,596,008 Views

1,675 Questions Answered

Best of Web

Let’s Begin…

Did you know arrows consistently bend before they hit their target? It's called the archer's paradox, and it's known as the demon for all archers. But how do archers work around it? SmarterEveryDay investigates.

Additional Resources for you to Explore

Watch these recommended TED-Ed Lessons

The physics of the "hardest move" in ballet
In the third act of "Swan Lake", the Black Swan pulls off a seemingly endless series of turns, bobbing up and down on one pointed foot and spinning around and around and around ... thirty-two times. How is this move — which is called a fouetté — even possible? Arleen Sugano unravels the physics of this famous ballet move.

Football physics: The "impossible" free kick
In 1997, Brazilian football player Roberto Carlos set up for a 35 meter free kick with no direct line to the goal. Carlos’s shot sent the ball flying wide of the players, but just before going out of bounds it hooked to the left and soared into the net. How did he do it? Erez Garty describes the physics behind one of the most magnificent goals in the history of football.

Additional references

The physics behind the wild wobble of Brady Ellison's arrows - Wired
Let's look at the arrow in archery. It seems so simple: fletching, a shaft, and a point. It's basically a sharp stick with some feathers. But if you watch an arrow fly in slow motion, you see something cool.

Next Section »

About TED-Ed Best of Web

TED-Ed Best of Web are exceptional, user-created lessons that are carefully selected by volunteer teachers and TED-Ed staff.

Meet The Creators

More from Math In Real Life