Physics And  Fastball
2013

California Film Institute San Rafael, CA

with

David Barker and Linda Shore

Science of Baseball Program, Exploratorium

Physics and Fastballs: The Science of Baseball— Physics & Fastballs: The Science of Baseball

With baseball season in full swing, whose imagination doesn't turn naturally to dreams of green grass, peanuts and…science? In this program, Exploratorium baseball experts (and fanatics) discussed the science of America's favorite pastime.

The presentation utilized clips from both scientific documentaries and Hollywood films. Why is a curveball curved? What makes the sweet spot so sweet? Why do outfielders instinctively run in an arc instead of a straight line? And why have some physicists stated that, at least on paper, hitting a home run is impossible? 

California Film Institute San Rafael, CA

Film Synopsis

Why is a curveball curved? What makes the sweet spot so sweet? Why do outfielders instinctively run in an arc instead of a straight line? And why have some physicists stated that, at least on paper, hitting a home run is impossible?

Using clips from both scientific documentaries and Hollywood films The Natural and Bull Durham, speakers David Barker and Linda Shore examine the physics behind pitching, batting, and defense.

About the Speaker

David Barker and Linda Shore, two longtime employees at the Exploratorium, the museum of science, art, and human perception in San Francisco, created the Exploratorium’s acclaimed Science of Baseball program.