How Do Curveballs Change Direction in Midair?

The video explains the human reaction time and its significance in sports, particularly baseball. It discusses how professional players must anticipate the ball's path due to the short time it takes to reach them. The concept of breaking pitches, like curveballs, is introduced, highlighting the Magnus effect, which causes the ball to change direction due to its spin. The video details the mechanics of the Magnus effect, explaining how the boundary layer of air interacts with the spinning ball, causing it to deflect and change its flight path. Finally, it discusses how pitchers use different spins to manipulate the ball's trajectory, using the Magnus effect to their advantage.

What happens to the air around a curveball as it is thrown?

Describe the difference between top spin and backspin on a baseball.