Principal Lecturer in Physics and Astronomy — College of Science
Physics, Physics In Sports, Science
At A Glance
How are ice skaters able to spin faster? How are divers able to minimize splashing? Does it matter what athletes wear in competition? Can the design and material of a shoe really help you run better, dance better? In her lectures, Amy Pope explores the physics of sports — from the science of movement to the aerodynamics of sports apparel. She demonstrates physics using athletic games and competitions and is able to break down the physics at play when fans tune into their favorite sports, including football, gymnastics, swimming, track and field, ski jumping and many more.
Bio
In the realm of sports, understanding the underlying principles of physics can offer fascinating insights into athletic performance. This is precisely the focus of lectures by Amy Pope, Ph.D., where she delves into the intricate physics of sports, encompassing everything from movement mechanics to the aerodynamics of sports apparel. By using athletic games and competitions as practical demonstrations, she brings to light how physics plays a crucial role in sports. In addition, she teaches physics as it relates to the design and material of sports apparel and how it’s engineered to enhance aerodynamics and reduce friction.
As a principal lecturer, Pope vividly illustrates how the principles of physics are deeply intertwined with athletic performance, providing a comprehensive understanding of the science behind sports, offering valuable insights for athletes, enthusiasts and spectators alike. Pope covers topics such as stored energy and energy transfer with sports such as pole vaulting and the Magnus effect in soccer, explaining how it influences the trajectory of the ball, particularly when executed with precision by players like David Beckham who often used the spin and speed of his kicks to bend the ball around defensive walls and into the goal.
Pope has been a Clemson faculty senate delegate, facilitator of several faculty learning communities and is active in community outreach. Before joining the faculty at Clemson in 2008, Pope was a Clemson student, earning three degrees.
While we all have an intuitive understanding of physics, delving into the specifics — like the forces at play during a high jump or the aerodynamics of a curveball — can make a profound difference for athletes. This knowledge allows them to refine their techniques and achieve peak performance. I strive to bridge the gap between science and sports, ensuring that both athletes and fans can marvel at physics in action.
