how do sailboats work

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How Does Sailing Work? The Physics of Sailing

Sailing, with its graceful boats skimming across the water powered solely by the wind, is a captivating and ancient mode of transportation and recreation. While it might seem like magic, the principles behind sailing are firmly grounded in physics. The interplay between the wind, the water, and the structure of the sailboat creates an intricate dance of forces that propels the vessel forward. In this article, we will delve into the physics of sailing to uncover the mechanics behind this age-old practice.

The Role of the Wind: Lift and Drag

At the heart of sailing lies the wind – a dynamic force that fills the sails and provides the energy needed to move the boat. The interaction between the wind and the sail is based on the principles of lift and drag, which are also fundamental to aviation and other fluid dynamics.

When wind flows over the curved surface of a sail, it creates an area of lower pressure on the windward side and an area of higher pressure on the leeward side. This pressure difference generates lift, much like an airplane wing. The sail’s shape and angle in relation to the wind determine the amount of lift generated. By adjusting the sail’s angle, sailors can control the lift and subsequently the boat’s direction.

Drag, on the other hand, is the resistance the sail experiences due to the friction between the air molecules and the sail’s surface. While drag can’t be entirely eliminated, modern sail designs aim to minimize it to ensure the boat moves efficiently through the water.

>>Also Read: How Fast Can a Sailboat Go?

The Concept of Apparent Wind

In a straightforward scenario, a sailboat would travel directly downwind with the wind pushing the sails from behind. However, sailing often involves moving at angles to the wind, a concept that introduces the notion of apparent wind.

Apparent wind is the combination of the true wind – the wind blowing over the Earth’s surface – and the wind generated by the boat’s motion through the water. As the boat sails at an angle to the true wind, the wind experienced by the boat appears to come from a different direction and at a higher speed than the true wind. This apparent wind is crucial for maintaining lift on the sails, even when sailing against the true wind direction.

Points of Sail: Navigating the Wind Angles

To understand how sailboats maneuver, it’s essential to grasp the concept of points of sail. These are specific angles at which a boat can sail relative to the wind direction. The main points of sail are:

Close-hauled: Sailing as closely as possible into the wind. This requires the sails to be trimmed in tightly, and the boat moves forward at an angle against the wind.
Close reach: Sailing diagonally to the wind, between close-hauled and a beam reach.
Beam reach: Sailing perpendicular to the wind. This is often the fastest point of sail as the boat can fully capture the wind’s energy.
Broad reach: Sailing diagonally away from the wind, between a beam reach and running.
Running: Sailing directly downwind, with the wind coming from behind the boat.

By adjusting the angle of the sails and the boat’s course, sailors can optimize their speed and direction according to the prevailing wind conditions.

>>Also Read: Points of Sail Explained

Balancing Forces: The Keel and Centerboard

While the wind provides the forward propulsion, the boat’s stability and ability to maintain a straight course are maintained through the use of a keel or centerboard, depending on the type of sailboat.

The keel is a heavy, fin-like structure located beneath the boat’s hull. It serves two main purposes: counteracting the force of the wind pushing the boat sideways (referred to as leeway) and providing ballast to keep the boat upright. The keel’s shape generates lift in the water that counters the lateral force of the wind, allowing the boat to sail closer to the wind without being pushed sideways.

For boats with a centerboard, which is a retractable fin located in the center of the boat, the principle is similar. By adjusting the centerboard’s depth, sailors can control the boat’s lateral resistance and stability.

>>Also Read: How do Sailboats Move Without Wind?

Tacking and Jibing: Changing Course with the Wind

Sailing isn’t just about going in a straight line – sailboats can change direction by tacking and jibing.

Tacking involves turning the boat’s bow through the wind so that the wind changes from one side of the boat to the other. This maneuver allows the boat to change direction while maintaining forward momentum. During a tack, the sails are let out to spill the wind’s energy, the bow crosses through the wind, and then the sails are trimmed in again on the new tack.

Jibing, on the other hand, is a maneuver where the stern of the boat crosses through the wind. This is often used when sailing downwind. Jibing requires careful coordination, as the sails can swing abruptly from one side to the other, potentially causing powerful forces.

Sail Shape and Rigging: Aerodynamics of Sailing

The shape of the sail and the configuration of the rigging also play a vital role in the physics of sailing. Modern sail designs use a combination of materials and engineering to create sails that are both efficient and durable.

The angle at which the sail is set, known as the angle of attack, determines the amount of lift and drag produced. Sails are typically designed with a curved shape, known as camber, which allows for better lift generation and minimizes drag. Adjustable controls such as the cunningham, outhaul, and boom vang enable sailors to modify the shape of the sail according to wind conditions.

The mast, rigging, and other structural elements of the sailboat are designed to distribute forces evenly and provide stability. The tension in the rigging affects the shape of the mast, which, in turn, affects the shape of the sail. Balancing these factors ensures optimal sail performance and boat stability.

>>Also Read: Most Common Sailing Terms

How Does Sailing Work? The Physics of Sailing – In Conclusion

Sailing is a captivating interplay of physics and nature, where the wind’s energy is harnessed to propel a boat gracefully across the water. By understanding the principles of lift, drag, apparent wind, and the mechanics of sail shape and rigging, sailors can navigate the seas with precision and finesse. From the ancient mariners who first ventured out onto the open waters to the modern sailors competing in high-tech races, the physics of sailing remains a timeless and essential art.

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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How Do Sailboats Work? (The Complete Guide)

Ever wondered how a sailboat moves through the water? If so, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll explore the science behind sailboats, from what they are to the parts they use to move.

We’ll uncover the basics of how to angle the sails, the role of the rudder, and safety tips that every sailor should know.

Finally, we’ll dive into the many benefits of sailing, from the joy of exploring the open waters to the feeling of accomplishment when you reach your destination.

So, if you’re ready to discover the wonders of sailboats, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

Sailboats use the power of the wind to propel them forward.

The sails are designed to catch the wind, and as the wind passes through the sails, it creates lift which moves the boat forward.

The sails can be adjusted to different angles to maximize the lift and the direction of the boat.

The rudder is used to steer the boat and the keel helps to keep the boat stable in the water.

What is a Sailboat?

A sailboat is a type of boat that uses sails to propel itself through the water.

The sails are usually made of lightweight, durable fabric, such as nylon or polyester, and are attached to a mast which is mounted on the boat.

The sails are designed to catch the wind, which pushes the boat forward.

The sails can be adjusted and angled in order to capture more or less of the wind, allowing for more efficient movement.

The rudder of the boat is a large fin-like structure located at the back of the boat which is used to steer the boat in the desired direction.

With the right skills and understanding of how sailboats work , anyone can enjoy the thrill of sailing.

How Does a Sailboat Work?

Sailboats use the power of the wind to move through the water, allowing them to be an efficient and eco-friendly way to explore the open seas.

In order to understand how sailboats work, its important to understand the parts that make up a sailboat and how they interact with the wind.

The most important part of a sailboat is the sail, which is typically made of lightweight and durable fabric.

The sail is held up by a mast attached to the boat, and it is designed to capture the wind and use it to push the boat forward.

The sail is able to capture more wind when it is angled in a certain direction, allowing it to move faster and more efficiently.

In addition to the sail, sailboats also have a rudder that helps steer the boat in a desired direction.

The rudder works in conjunction with the sail to allow for precise maneuvering of the boat in any direction.

The rudder is typically located behind the boat and is made of a solid material like wood or metal.

Another important part of a sailboat is the keel, which is a fin-like structure that is attached to the bottom of the boat.

The keel helps stabilize the boat and keep it upright in the water.

It also helps the boat stay in a straight line when sailing in a straight direction.

Finally, the sailboat must have a rigging system, which is made up of ropes and lines that are used to control the sails.

The rigging system is used to adjust the angle of the sail to capture the most amount of wind and move the boat forward.

With the right knowledge and understanding of how sailboats work, anyone can enjoy the thrill of sailing.

Understanding how to use the sails, the keel, the rudder, and the rigging system together will help you become an expert sailboat captain in no time.

The Parts of the Sailboat

Sailboats are propelled by the force of wind on their sails, and the most important part of the sailboat is the sail itself.

The sails are typically made of lightweight, durable fabric and are held up by a mast attached to the boat.

The angle of the sail is what captures the wind, allowing for more efficient movement.

The rudder of the boat helps steer it in the desired direction, working in conjunction with the sails to allow for precise maneuvering.

In addition to the sail and mast, the sailboat also contains a boom, which helps hold the sail out when the wind is blowing.

The boom is connected to the mast and can be adjusted to control the angle of the sail.

Additionally, the sailboat features a keel, which is a fin-like structure that helps keep the boat stable and upright in the water.

The keel also helps the boat move in a straight line when the wind is blowing.

Lastly, the sailboat features a tiller, which is the handle used to steer the rudder.

These are the key parts of a sailboat that allow it to move through the water.

How to Angle the Sails

Angling the sails is an essential part of sailing a boat effectively.

By adjusting the angle of the sails in relation to the wind, you can capture more of the winds power to propel the boat forward.

To angle the sails correctly, the sailor must first identify the direction of the wind.

This can be done by feeling the air on their face, or by looking for telltale signs like rippling water or flags flapping in the wind.

Once the wind direction is known, the sailor must adjust the angle of the sails so that they will catch more of the winds power and propel the boat forward.

The most efficient angle for the sails depends on the type of boat and the strength of the wind, but in general, the sails should be angled so they are at a 45-degree angle to the wind.

This allows the sails to catch the most wind and propel the boat forward with the most efficiency.

It is also important to make sure that the sails are not too close to the boat, as this can cause them to lose their shape and be less effective.

In addition to angling the sails correctly, the sailor must also be aware of the wind speed and direction.

As the wind speed and direction change, the sailor must adjust the angle of the sails in order to stay on course and maintain the most efficient angle for catching the wind.

By making small adjustments to the sails angle, the sailor can keep the boat moving in the desired direction and maintain the most efficient speed.

Sailors must also be aware of how their body weight can affect the angle of the sails.

If the sailor leans too far to one side of the boat, the angle of the sails will be affected.

This can result in the boat veering off course or the sails not catching the wind efficiently.

To prevent this, the sailor must be aware of their body weight and be mindful of how it affects the sails.

By understanding and being aware of how to angle the sails correctly, sailors can ensure that they are using the power of the wind to propel their boat forward efficiently.

With practice and experience, anyone can become a skilled sailor and enjoy the thrill of sailing.

The Role of the Rudder

The role of the rudder on a sailboat is essential for steering and maneuvering the boat in the desired direction.

The rudder is typically located at the stern of the boat and is a flat piece of metal or wood that is connected to the hull and runs along the bottom of the boat.

By changing the angle of the rudder relative to the hull, the boat can be steered in the desired direction.

When the rudder is angled to the left, the boat will turn to the left and when the rudder is angled to the right, the boat will turn to the right.

The rudder is also used to keep the boat on a straight course when sailing in strong winds.

By angling the rudder slightly, it helps to create a drag on one side of the boat and a lift on the other side, allowing for greater control and stability in high winds.

In addition to the rudder, sails can also be angled to help turn the boat in the desired direction.

Together, the sails and the rudder work together to help the sailor steer and maneuver the boat in the desired direction.

Safety Tips for Sailing

Sailing is a popular recreational activity, but it can also be dangerous if not practiced safely.

Before setting sail, it is important to be aware of some key safety tips that will help you enjoy your sailing experience without any hiccups.

First, make sure you have the proper safety equipment onboard.

This includes life jackets, flares, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher.

It is also a good idea to carry a radio or GPS device onboard in case of emergency.

Additionally, make sure that the boat has been inspected and is in good working condition before leaving the dock.

It is also important to check the weather before setting sail.

Make sure you are aware of any storms or other hazardous conditions that may be in the forecast.

Make sure to also check the tide and wind conditions before leaving, as these can greatly affect your course and speed.

It is important to wear the proper clothing when sailing.

Choose clothing that is lightweight, breathable, and waterproof.

Make sure to also bring a hat or visor and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

Additionally, make sure you have plenty of food and water onboard in case of emergency.

Finally, make sure you have a good understanding of the sailing basics, such as sailing terms, the parts of the boat, and how to properly sail.

Knowing these basics, as well as the local rules and regulations, will help ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your sailing experience is a safe and enjoyable one.

Be sure to always practice good safety habits and use common sense when out on the water.

With the proper preparation and knowledge, sailing can be a fun and enjoyable experience.

The Benefits of Sailing

Sailing is an activity that can provide countless benefits to those who take part in it.

Not only can it be great fun, but it can also be a great way to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Sailing can also increase physical and mental wellbeing, as it provides an opportunity to be out in nature and enjoy the fresh air.

Additionally, sailing can help improve coordination, balance, and focus, as well as provide a unique way to explore the world.

It can also be a great way to build self-confidence, as mastering the art of sailing requires skill and determination.

Finally, sailing can be a great form of exercise, as it can help improve endurance, strength, and flexibility.

All these benefits make sailing a great activity for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors and have a memorable experience.

Final Thoughts

Sailboats are a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and even take part in competitive sailing events.

With the right knowledge of how sailboats work, anyone can get out on the water and enjoy the thrill of sailing.

From understanding the parts of a sailboat to how the sails and rudder work together, sailing is a skill that can be easily learned.

With all the benefits of sailing, it’s an activity that’s sure to bring plenty of fun and memories.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out on the water and experience the magic of sailing!

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

How a Sail Works: Basic Aerodynamics

The more you learn about how a sail works, the more you start to really appreciate the fundamental structure and design used for all sailboats.

It can be truly fascinating that many years ago, adventurers sailed the oceans and seas with what we consider now to be basic aerodynamic and hydrodynamic theory.

When I first heard the words “aerodynamic and hydrodynamic theory” when being introduced to how a sail works in its most fundamental form, I was a bit intimidated.

“Do I need to take a physics 101 course?” However, it turns out it can be explained in very intuitive ways that anyone with a touch of curiosity can learn.

Wherever possible, I’ll include not only intuitive descriptions of the basic aerodynamics of how a sail works, but I’ll also include images to illustrate these points.

There are a lot of fascinating facts to learn, so let’s get to it!

Basic Aerodynamic Theory and Sailing

Combining the world of aerodynamics and sailing is a natural move thanks to the combination of wind and sail.

We all know that sailboats get their forward motion from wind energy, so it’s no wonder a little bit of understanding of aerodynamics is in order. Aerodynamics is a field of study focused on the motion of air when it interacts with a solid object.

The most common image that comes to mind is wind on an airplane or a car in a wind tunnel. As a matter of fact, the sail on a sailboat acts a bit like a wing under specific points of sail as does the keel underneath a sailboat.

People have been using the fundamentals of aerodynamics to sail around the globe for thousands of years.

The ancient Greeks are known to have had at least an intuitive understanding of it an extremely long time ago. However, it wasn’t truly laid out as science until Sir Isaac Newton came along in 1726 with his theory of air resistance.

Fundamental Forces

One of the most important facets to understand when learning about how a sail works under the magnifying glass of aerodynamics is understanding the forces at play.

There are four fundamental forces involved in the combination of aerodynamics and a sailboat and those include the lift, drag, thrust, and weight.

From the image above, you can see these forces at play on an airfoil, which is just like a wing on an airplane or similar to the many types of sails on a sailboat. They all have an important role to play in how a sail works when out on the water with a bit of wind about, but the two main aerodynamic forces are lift and drag.

Before we jump into how lift and drag work, let’s take a quick look at thrust and weight since understanding these will give us a better view of the aerodynamics of a sailboat.

As you can imagine, weight is a pretty straight forward force since it’s simply how heavy an object is.

The weight of a sailboat makes a huge difference in how it’s able to accelerate when a more powerful wind kicks in as well as when changing directions while tacking or jibing.

It’s also the opposing force to lift, which is where the keel comes in mighty handy. More on that later.

The thrust force is a reactionary force as it’s the main result of the combination of all the other forces. This is the force that helps propel a sailboat forward while in the water, which is essentially the acceleration of a sailboat cutting through the water.

Combine this forward acceleration with the weight of sailboat and you get Newton’s famous second law of motion F=ma.

Drag and Lift

Now for the more interesting aerodynamic forces at play when looking at how a sail works. As I mentioned before, lift and drag are the two main aerodynamic forces involved in this scientific dance between wind and sail.

Just like the image shows, they are perpendicular forces that play crucial roles in getting a sailboat moving along.

If you were to combine the lift and drag force together, you would end up with a force that’s directly trying to tip your sailboat.

What the sail is essentially doing is breaking up the force of the wind into two components that serve different purposes. This decomposition of forces is what makes a sailboat a sailboat.

The drag force is the force parallel to the sail, which is essentially the force that’s altering the direction of the wind and pushing the sailboat sideways.

The reason drag is occurring in the first place is based on the positioning of the sail to the wind. Since we want our sail to catch the wind, it’s only natural this force will be produced.

The lift force is the force perpendicular to the sail and provides the energy that’s pointed fore the sailboat. Since the lift force is pointing forward, we want to ensure our sailboat is able to use as much of that force to produce forward propulsion.

This is exactly the energy our sailboat needs to get moving, so figuring out how to eliminate any other force that impedes it is essential.

Combining the lift and drag forces produces a very strong force that’s exactly perpendicular to the hull of a sailboat.

As you might have already experienced while out on a sailing adventure, the sailboat heels (tips) when the wind starts moving, which is exactly this strong perpendicular force produced by the lift and drag.

Now, you may be wondering “Why doesn’t the sailboat get pushed in this new direction due to this new force?” Well, if we only had the hull and sail to work with while out on the water, we’d definitely be out of luck.

There’s no question we’d just be pushed to the side and never move forward. However, sailboats have a special trick up their sleeves that help transform that energy to a force pointing forward.

Hydrodynamics: The Role of the Keel

An essential part of any monohull sailboat is a keel, which is the long, heavy object that protrudes from the hull and down to the seabed. Keels can come in many types , but they all serve the same purpose regardless of their shape and size.

Hydrodynamics, or fluid dynamics, is similar to aerodynamics in the sense that it describes the flow of fluids and is often used as a way to model how liquids in motion interact with solid objects.

As a matter of fact, one of the most famous math problems that have yet to be solved is exactly addressing this interaction, which is called the Navier-Stokes equations. If you can solve this math problem, the Clay Mathematics Institute will award you with $1 million!

There are a couple of reasons why a sailboat has a keel . A keel converts sideways force on the sailboat by the wind into forward motion and it provides ballast (i.e., keeps the sailboat from tipping).

By canceling out the perpendicular force on the sailboat originally caused by the wind hitting the sail, the only significant leftover force produces forward motion.

We talked about how the sideways force makes the sailboat tip to the side. Well, the keep is made out to be a wing-like object that can not only effectively cut through the water below, but also provide enough surface area to resist being moved.

For example, if you stick your hand in water and keep it stiff while moving it back and forth in the direction of your palm, your hand is producing a lot of resistance to the water.

This resisting force by the keel contributes to eliminating that perpendicular force that’s trying to tip the sailboat as hard as it can.

The wind hitting the sail and thus producing that sideways force is being pushed back by this big, heavy object in the water. Since that big, heavy object isn’t easy to push around, a lot of that energy gets canceled out.

When the energy perpendicular to the sailboat is effectively canceled out, the only remaining force is the remnants of the lift force. And since the lift force was pointing parallel to the sailboat as well as the hull, there’s only one way to go: forward!

Once the forward motion starts to occur, the keel starts to act like a wing and helps to stabilize the sailboat as the speed increases.

This is when the keel is able to resist the perpendicular force even more, resulting in the sailboat evening out.

This is exactly why once you pick up a bit of speed after experiencing a gust, your sailboat will tend to flatten instead of stay tipped over so heavily.

Heeling Over

When you’re on a sailboat and you experience the feeling of the sailboat tipping to either the port or starboard side, that’s called heeling .

As your sailboat catches the wind in its sail and works with the keel to produce forward motion, that heeling over will be reduced due to the wing-like nature of the keel.

The combination of the perpendicular force of the wind on the sail and the opposing force by the keel results in these forces canceling out.

However, the keel isn’t able to overpower the force by the wind absolutely which results in the sailboat traveling forward with a little tilt, or heel, to it.

Ideally, you want your sailboat to heel as little as possible because this allows your sailboat to cut through the water easier and to transfer more energy forward.

This is why you see sailboat racing crews leaning on the side of their sailboat that’s heeled over the most. They’re trying to help the keel by adding even more force against the perpendicular wind force.

By leveling out the sailboat, you’ll be able to move through the water far more efficiently. This means that any work in correcting the heeling of your sailboat beyond the work of the keel needs to be done by you and your crew.

Apart from the racing crews that lean intensely on one side of the sailboat, there are other ways to do this as well.

One way to prevent your sailboat from heeling over is to simply move your crew from one side of the sailboat to the other. Just like racing sailors, you’re helping out the keel resist the perpendicular force without having to do any intense harness gymnastics.

A great way to properly keep your sailboat from heeling over is to adjust the sails on your sailboat. Sure, it’s fun to sail around with a little heel because it adds a bit of action to the day, but if you need to contain that action a bit all you need to do is ease out the sails.

By easing out the sails, you’re reducing the surface area of the sail acting on the wind and thus reducing the perpendicular wind force. Be sure to ease it out carefully though so as to avoid luffing.

Another great way to reduce heeling on your sailboat is to reef your sails. By reefing your sails, you’re again reducing the surface area of the sails acting on the wind.

However, in this case the reduction of surface area doesn’t require altering your current point of sail and instead simply remove surface area altogether.

When the winds are high and mighty, and they don’t appear to be letting up, reefing your sails is always a smart move.

How an Airplane Wing Works

We talked a lot about how a sail is a wing-like object, but I always find it important to be able to understand one concept in a number of different ways.

Probably the most common example’s of how aerodynamics works is with wings on an airplane. If you can understand how a sail works as well as a wing on an airplane, you’ll be in a small minority of people who truly understand the basic aerodynamic theory.

As I mentioned before, sails on a sailboat are similar to wings on an airplane. When wind streams across a wing, some air travels above the wing and some below.

The air that travels above the wing travels a longer distance, which means it has to travel at a higher velocity than the air below resulting in a lower pressure environment.

On the other hand, the air that passes below the wing doesn’t have to travel as far as the air on top of the wing, so the air can travel at a lower velocity than the air above resulting in a higher pressure environment.

Now, it’s a fact that high-pressure systems always move toward low-pressure systems since this is a transfer of energy from a higher potential to a lower potential.

Think of what happens when you open the bathroom door after taking a hot shower. All that hot air escapes into a cooler environment as fast as possible.

Due to the shape of a wing on an airplane, a pressure differential is created and results in the high pressure wanting to move to the lower pressure.

This resulting pressure dynamic forces the wing to move upward causing whatever else is attached to it to rise up as well. This is how airplanes are able to produce lift and raise themselves off the ground.

Now if you look at this in the eyes of a sailboat, the sail is acting in a similar way. Wind is streaming across the sail head on resulting in some air going on the port side and the starboard side of the sail.

Whichever side of the sail is puffed out will require the air to travel a bit farther than the interior part of the sail.

This is actually where there’s a slight difference between a wing and a sail since both sides of the sail are equal in length.

However, all of the air on the interior doesn’t have to travel the same distance as all of the air on the exterior, which results in the pressure differential we see with wings.

Final Thoughts

We got pretty technical here today, but I hope it was helpful in deepening your understanding of how a sail works as well as how a keel works when it comes to basic aerodynamic and hydrodynamic theory.

Having this knowledge is helpful when adjusting your sails and being conscious of the power of the wind on your sailboat.

With a better fundamental background in how a sailboat operates and how their interconnected parts work together in terms of basic aerodynamics and hydrodynamics, you’re definitely better fit for cruising out on the water.

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How Do Sails Actually Work: Full Beginners Guide

The sails are your boat's primary driving force. Your boat is designed to sail , and with good wind it will be faster and more comfortable than using the engine. Engines on sailboats are called "auxiliary" for a reason, almost every sailor hates to use them once they get the hang of sailing. But it won't happen if you don't learn to trim the sails, and to trim them you have to understand them.

But how does a bunch of cloth - your sails - get so much motive power and force? How do sails actually work?

The short answer is that upwind sails generate lift which acts against forces on the keel in the water to pull the boat forward, and downwind sails capture as much wind force as they can to push the boat downwind.

But the detailed answer for sailing upwind is more complex, so come join us for a deep dive into the reason sailboats work and can sail up, down, and across the wind. It's going to get a little into math and a little physics, but we'll keep it on a practical level where you can get the concepts with little hard stuff. And downwind sails are much easier to explain.

To understand sails and sailing, understand the forces which apply to a boat and how they combine to make forward motion. To represent forces, motion, and velocity, we need to use vectors .

We'll do our best to keep this simple, and you will not need a calculator. The important takeaway is how we add forces together to figure a net force or motion .

What is a Vector?

A vector is a number with both a magnitude (a number or size) and a direction. Traveling at 60 miles per hour down the highway is a speed—the car's speed is 60 mph no matter where it’s headed. It has no direction component. But traveling west at 60 mph is a velocity , which is a speed and a direction (west).

You represent the speed easily with a number: "60." But how do you show its velocity headed west? Just as easily, with a vector.

Draw a six-inch line running east/west, then put an arrow on the west end. If we set our scale to one inch = 10mph, then we have our scalar measurement (6") and our orientation - west, or 270°. This arrow is the velocity vector of a car moving at 60mph headed west.

You can represent anything with an orientation and a scalar measurement this way. Whether it's the force and direction a pool cue applies to a ball, the force a hammerhead puts on a nail or the speed and direction of the wind, you can show it with vectors.

Calculating the sailing vector (with pictures)

So what is the point of drawing arrows to describe things? If we can describe forces with vectors, then we can add and subtract the vectors to see how the forces add and subtract, too.

Adding vectors is simple. To add two vectors, put the arrow end of the first vector at the beginning of the second vector. Then, with a straight edge, draw a line from the start of the first vector to the end of the second and put an arrow on the end where it meets the second vector. That new line you just drew is the sum of the vectors.

That's all there is to it. But what does it mean? Let's do a couple of thought exercises to show how it works.

Picture a bicyclist riding north along a road at 20 mph with no wind. The bicyclist feels a 20 mph north wind in her face, right? You can draw that as a line 20 units long pointing directly at the rider's face. The exact units on paper don't matter. That they're consistent is all that counts, so "one square of graph paper = one unit" and "one unit equals one mph" is just fine.

Now picture a 10 mph north wind from straight in front of the rider. What does it feel like to the rider?

That 10 mph wind is added to the 20 mph wind, and it feels like the rider is moving into a 30mph wind. You don't need vectors to see this, it's simple math, and you know how this feels. Just like you know a 10 mph south wind from straight behind the rider will make the total wind feel like just 10 mph.

But what about if there's a 10 mph wind from the east - 90 degrees from the rider's right? What does the wind force feel like in her face now?

Draw your 20-unit north wind line in the rider's face.
From the end of the first line, draw a 10-unit east wind.
With a straightedge, draw a line from the beginning of the north wind vector to the arrow on the east wind vector.
That line is what the rider feels in her face from the combined wind of her motion on the bike and the 10 mph east wind.
You can measure the exact angle of the new vector with a protractor or compass and measure the length in units to get the wind strength. You'd get a wind that felt like 22.4 mph from 26.6° to the rider’s right.

Vector A, the north wind (0°) 20 mph long, and B is the east wind (90°) at 10 mph

The line is drawn to add them together.

The new vector for the wind force.

To explore this further, check out the tool used to make these graphics , where you can create your own vectors and add them together. Just remember it's made by mathematicians, not sailors, so North (0°) is to the right instead of up!

Applying vectors when sailing

You don't need to understand how to measure vectors or even do the math to get all the numbers. All you need to understand is how to add the forces together with the arrows.

Lay them head-to-tail and draw the new line. And that's enough for you to see how the combined forces will look without using a calculator.

Vectors are an important part of understanding sailing. When you learn to navigate, you'll use vectors to calculate the current set and drift or the course to a waypoint (though they won't call it that!). From our examples, you see how they apply to understand apparent wind. You don't need to draw lines on paper all the time, but understanding how forces, currents, and wind affect each other will make you a better sailor.

Now that we know how to measure and add forces, we can talk about the forces on a boat that create upwind motion. There are a few basic physics principles that describe and explain these forces and how they apply to a sailboat. If you never took physics back in the day (or you remember as well as most of us do years later...) don't sweat. We'll keep it relatable.

What is the Bernoulli Effect?

Standing near a chimney, you can feel flue drafts that suck the heat right out of the room if you leave it open, or see them suck smoke up the chimney. And if you've ever flown, did you ever look out the window at what the wing was doing during the flight? Ever wonder how the wings get that big jet plane off the ground?

The answer lies in the work of Daniel Bernoulli, an 18th-century Swiss mathematician. Bernoulli's Principle states that a moving fluid is associated with a decrease in static pressure. The faster the flow, the lower the pressure near it.

At lower speeds, the air is effectively fluid, and the same rules apply. So wind moving over a chimney opening creates a low-pressure spot at the top of the chimney, which draws air up the chimney even when there is no fire. On a windy day, this force is powerful enough to rattle the flue cover when it's closed.

How the sail generates lift

How does this get a plane in the air? And by extension, how does it get power to a sail? Because the same principle applies and upwind sails are very similar to airplane wings.

An airplane wing is a curved surface. As air flows over a curved surface, the air on the outside of the curve has a longer path to travel than air on the inside before it meets again at the back of the wing. Both sides of the wing are moving through the air at the same speed, so the air over the top of the curve must move faster than the air on the bottom.

The faster a fluid moves, the lower the pressure. So the faster air on top of the wing has lower pressure than the bottom, which leads to a lifting force from the higher pressure under the wing. The curve of a wing causes the lifting force towards the top of the wing. The same thing applies to upwind sails - the curve in the sail generates "lift" towards the outside of the sail.

If you want to feel this yourself, the next time you're a passenger in a car, roll down the window and put your hand. Flatten your hand with your palm down parallel to the ground. Then, slowly curve your hand and feel the lifting force!

How the sailor controls lift

If you've watched the wing while a plane takes off or lands, you've seen the pilot adjusting the flaps and the overall shape of the wing. A modern plane wing changes shape from a low-flat profile to a shorter, thicker shape. This different shape changes the amount of lift the wing gives, and the thicker shape has more lift, which helps at takeoff and landing.

The pilot is trimming the wing like a sailor trims a sail.

In a curved surface like an airplane wing (or sail), the chord is the curve's height. The fuller the curve, the longer the chord. And the faster the wind has to travel over the outside to meet the inside wind, which leads to more lift. But it also creates more drag, so once a plane is off the ground and getting closer to cruising speed, the pilot flattens out the wing to reduce drag for higher speed.

For airplanes, this makes taking off and landing easier since the plane can get off the ground and land at lower speeds. For sails, it gives more power for acceleration from low speed or through waves and chop.

What is Newton's Third Law of Motion?

"For every action, there's an equal and opposite reaction."

If you push against a wall, the wall pushes back with the same force. If it didn't, the wall would fall over. A rocket blasts hot gasses from burning fuel out of the bottom, and the rocket moves forward from the reaction force. A car's tires push against the road, the road pushes back, and the car moves forward.

When wind hits a boat's sails, it will either flop over and capsize or skitter sideways through the water unless it has a keel or other appendage under the water . A mono-hulled boat without a keel, centerboard, daggerboard, or other underwater stabilizers can not sail upwind.

So the keel acts as a counterpoise to the forces on the sails to keep the boat upright, but it also pushes against the water. This pushing against the water and the sails is an action, and there's an equal and opposite reaction. This force works against the sail lift to move the boat.

Sailing upwind, you've got a combination of lifting force from the sails, reactive force from the keel against the water, and other forces, like friction and drag from the water. These forces have their own vector arrows.

For simplicity, we will ignore friction and drag, since they're the only forces pushing against the boat in one direction as it moves through the water. While they increase with speed, we can assume the other forces are large enough to overcome them. And you don't want to make me explain adding four or five vectors together at once...

Friction and drag are very important to boat performance. We've simplified them out of the equation to make the force diagrams clearer. Faster boats have less drag from hull form and smooth bottoms, but all the drag and friction vectors point straight back against the boat's forward motion so they only slow the boat down, not change its direction.

In the diagram below, you can see vectors for the lifting force from the sails and the side force of the keep pushing against the water.

Now, add them.

You don't have to do it on paper, as long as you can see that those vectors, when added together, result in a vector that nets a forward motion of the hull through the water. There's your answer.

Any yacht designer will tell you there's much more to getting the correct forward vector. And this is true. The shape of the hull, the smoothness of the bottom, and a few other factors will affect the final forward forces on the boat.

But at its core, the lift vector from the sails added to the keel vector ends up in the boat being pulled forward.

What makes a boat sail downwind is much simpler than the mashup of force vectors we had to work through for upwind sailing. It's quite simple really - the sails fill with wind and pull on the boat to push/drag it downwind.

When you're not going against the wind, the physics is a lot simpler.

Not that you can't look more closely at the forces involved to maximize your speeds and find the best way to sail downwind. But we're not asking how to trim for speed, we're asking how the boat moves. And heading downwind, your full sails catch as much wind as possible to put as much propulsive force onto the hull as possible.

If you've gotten this far, you may wonder "now what?" The next step is to apply that knowledge to sail your boat. Now that you know you can change sail shapes for speed and power and why that works, check out our complete guide to trimming sails so you can trim better and sail faster.

How Do Sailboats Work: A Comprehensive Guide

by Emma Sullivan | Jul 17, 2023 | Sailboat Racing

Short answer: How do sailboats work:

Sailboats work by harnessing the power of the wind to propel them through water. The sails catch the wind and generate lift, propelling the boat forward. By adjusting the sails and rudder, sailors can control the direction and speed of the boat.

1) Understanding the Basics: How Do Sailboats Work?

Understanding the Basics: How Do Sailboats Work?

Sailboats have always fascinated mankind with their ability to glide across the water, harnessing the power of the wind. But have you ever wondered how these majestic vessels actually work? In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of sailboat mechanics and uncover the secrets behind their smooth sailing.

At its core, a sailboat is a simple yet ingenious engineering marvel. The fundamental principle that drives its movement is aerodynamics – the science of how objects move through air. When wind blows against a sail, it creates a force called lift, which propels the boat forward. This might sound similar to how an airplane operates, but there are key differences that make sailboats unique.

Let’s start with the anatomy of a sailboat. At first glance, you may think that all sailboats look alike, but they come in various shapes and sizes designed for different purposes. From sleek racing yachts to sturdy cruising sailboats, each type has its own set of features tailored to optimize performance.

The most prominent feature on any sailboat is undoubtedly its sails. These large sheets of fabric capture the wind and convert its kinetic energy into forward motion. Sails are shaped specifically to generate lift efficiently by taking advantage of Bernoulli’s principle – essentially using differences in air pressure above and below the sails to create lift.

When wind fills up in front of a well-trimmed sail (adjusted at an optimal angle), it creates positive pressure on one side while simultaneously creating negative pressure on the other side due to airflow separation. This differential pressure generates lift that pushes against both sides of the mast and allows the boat to move in a lateral direction relative to where it is pointing.

To control speed and direction, sailors depend on various elements known as rigging systems. These include adjustable ropes or lines called halyards, sheets, and control lines which enable precise manipulation of different parts of the sail. By skillfully adjusting these lines, sailors can trim the sails to maximize their efficiency and take full advantage of varying wind conditions.

Another crucial aspect of sailboat mechanics is the keel. Situated beneath the waterline, the keel serves as a counterbalance to the forces exerted on the boat by wind pressure. It prevents sideways drift by producing a resistance force through its large surface area in contact with the water, enabling stability and efficient sailing even against strong gusts.

Furthermore, for those intrigued by physics, it’s essential to recognize that sailboats move not directly into the wind but at an angle relative to it. This ability called “tacking” permits sailing upwind by alternating between angles into and away from the wind on opposite sides of a boat. Astute navigation combined with skillful coordination allows sailors to utilize both headwinds and tailwinds effectively.

In summary, sailboats work by capitalizing on principles of aerodynamics, utilizing specially designed sails and rigging systems to harness the power of winds efficiently. The interplay between wind, lift generation, keels, and strategic navigation enables these vessels to glide gracefully across bodies of water – offering a serene and environmentally friendly mode of travel like no other.

So next time you see a sailboat gracefully cutting through waves, remember that beneath its elegant exterior lies a complex system at work – showcasing human ingenuity coupled with our never-ending quest to conquer nature’s forces.

2) Step-by-Step Guide: A Closer Look at How Sailboats Operate

Title: Unveiling the Magic: A Comprehensive Journey Into the Inner Workings of Sailboats

Introduction: Sailboats have long fascinated us with their effortless grace and symbiotic dance with the wind. But have you ever wondered how exactly these vessels harness the power of nature to glide through vast oceans? In this immersive step-by-step guide, we will take a closer look, dismantling the mystery behind sailboat operations and revealing the intricate mechanisms that allow sailors to embark on thrilling adventures. Brace yourself for an enlightening voyage into understanding sailboats like never before!

1) Anatomy of a Sailboat: Dissecting its Elegant Structure Before venturing into how sailboats operate, let’s first examine their physical makeup. A sailboat comprises various integral components instrumental in propelling it forward. From the towering mast that proudly hoists the sails to the keel concealed beneath the water’s surface acting as a stabilizer, each facet plays an indispensable role in maneuvering this vessel through both calm waters and tumultuous seas.

2) Capturing Mother Nature’s Embrace: The Power of Sails The heart and soul of any sailboat lie within its sails. These magnificent sheets of fabric are not just beautiful additions to enhance aesthetics; they possess extraordinary capabilities. By utilizing Bernoulli’s principle, which states that air moving over curved surfaces creates lower pressure on one side compared to the other, sails generate lift akin to airplane wings. When properly trimmed and adjusted according to wind conditions, this lifting force allows sailboats to move forward precisely where they intend.

3) Steering Under Nature’s Guidance: The Rudder Comes Alive While sails provide propulsion, steering remains crucial in directing our majestic vessel on its chosen course. Enter the rudder – an underrated hero often overshadowed by billowing sails. Located beneath the stern at different depths based on balanced design considerations, it counteracts forces generated by wind pushing against a boat’s sides. By manipulating the precise angle of the rudder, skilled sailors deftly navigate through waters with coordinated finesse.

4) Taming the Wind: Working With Points of Sail To harness the wind’s forces effectively, sailors must comprehend the fundamental concept of points of sail. These essential reference points encompass various angles at which a sailboat can interact with the wind, determining its navigational abilities. From pointing directly into it (known as “in irons”) to sailing at acute and obtuse angles relative to wind direction, allowing quick travel under favorable conditions while maneuvering gracefully becomes an art requiring honed skills.

5) Mastery in Motion: Employing Sail Trim Techniques Manipulating a boat’s sails goes beyond merely adjusting their deployment; it is an art form encapsulating scientific understanding and practical expertise. Controlling sail shape plays a pivotal role; from pulling halyards to tensioning shrouds, each adjustment contributes to achieving optimal aerodynamic efficiency. Fine-tuning these subtleties allows skilled sailors to extract every ounce of power from gusts and breezes while maintaining stability under varying conditions.

6) The Symbiotic Symphony: Wind, Waves, and Navigation Navigating open waters on a sailboat is akin to partaking in an intricate symphony composed by nature herself. While steering through waves presents challenges that demand adept seamanship, understanding wave patterns and utilizing them cleverly can enhance performance significantly. Seamlessly aligning with natural rhythms empowers sailors with greater control over their voyage, capitalizing on swells for propulsion when harmoniously riding atop undulating crests.

Conclusion: Sailboats epitomize mankind’s eternal quest to conquer elements beyond our reach while embracing nature’s powers in symbiotic harmony. As we peel back the layers behind their operations – unravelling their structural anatomy, comprehending their mechanical principles in depth- we can truly appreciate their beauty from a fresh perspective. Armed with this newfound knowledge, may you embark on your next sailing adventure as a connoisseur of the high seas, confidently navigating the intricate dance between wind and water.

3) Sailing 101: How Do Sailboats Work? Your FAQs Answered

Title: The Art of Sailing: Unraveling the Mechanics Behind Sailboats

Introduction: Ahoy, fellow adventurers! Welcome to our Sailing 101 series, where we set sail to explore the vast world of sailing. Today, we embark on an exhilarating exploration of sailboats—those magnificent vessels that elegantly harness the power of wind to carve their way through the waters. Grab your sea legs and join us as we answer your FAQs about how sailboats work!

Chapter 1: Anatomy Of A Sailboat Every great sailor must first understand the anatomy of a sailboat before setting off on their nautical escapades. Picture a symphony of parts working harmoniously together—the hull, keel, mast, rigging, and sails. The hull provides buoyancy and stability, while the keel prevents excessive sideways drift. Rising majestically from the deck is the mast—a vertical beam that supports the sails and offers height for better wind exposure. Intricately entwined with wires and ropes, collectively known as rigging, it keeps everything in place.

Chapter 2: Head to Wind or Come About? Now that we’ve acquainted ourselves with the physical makeup of a sailboat let’s delve into its operations. At its core, sailing is all about striking a delicate balance between nature’s elements—wind propulsion and water resistance—and maneuvering skillfully against both.

When harnessed correctly, wind propels you forward under various angles relative to it. However, no matter how strong or favorable the wind may be; you can’t simply steer directly into it (head-on) due to certain limitations imposed by physics (cue air resistance). We instead adopt a concept called tacking or coming about—an artful maneuver where sailors zigzag towards their desired destination by adjusting their vessel’s angle relative to the wind.

Chapter 3: Hoisting & Adjusting Sails – Catching Zephyrs Time to hoist those sails and ride the zephyrs! Imagine you are a sailor at the helm, ready to set sail. By manipulating various lines and sheets, you control your sails—huge pieces of fabric that act as wings to harness the wind’s energy.

Before setting off, sailors refer to wind patterns and adjust the angle of their sails accordingly. Aligning them perpendicular to the wind direction is ideal for maximum propulsion. The correct trimming or adjusting of sails ensures they properly catch the airflow while minimizing drag.

Chapter 4: Take Control & Set A Course While sailing might seem like allowing nature’s whims to guide us, skilled sailors understand the importance of steering accuracy and control. A rudder beneath the boat enables us to influence our heading by turning it left or right. Adjustments on other parts such as daggerboards or centerboards further optimize stability while countering lateral movement.

Choosing a suitable course means combining insights from maps, charts, weather conditions, and—of course—a healthy dose of intuition acquired through experience. With these elements in sync, sailors can navigate waters with finesse while capitalizing on favorable winds.

Conclusion: By now, we’ve uncovered some of the secrets behind sailboats—complex yet beautiful machines that let us explore vast sea horizons. From understanding their anatomy to navigating against winds’ capricious whims, every aspect works together in concert with Mother Nature’s guidance. Embrace this captivating journey where art meets science—the splendid saga of staying afloat propelled solely by wind power.

Join us next time as we continue our Sailing 101 series with more fascinating insights into this enchanting world!

4) Mechanisms Unveiled: Exploring the Inner Workings of Sailboats

Have you ever found yourself mesmerized by the graceful movement of a sailboat gliding across the water? The combination of wind and water propelling these vessels is truly a marvel to behold. In today’s blog post, we are going to delve deep into the inner workings of sailboats and uncover the fascinating mechanisms behind their remarkable performance.

To fully appreciate the magic behind a sailboat, we must first understand the basic principles on which it operates. At its core, a sailboat relies on harnessing the power of the wind to move forward. This is achieved through an intricate system of sails, rigging, and a keel that work in perfect harmony.

Let’s start with the sails – they are undoubtedly one of the most iconic features of any sailing vessel. These large canvas-like structures catch the wind and convert its energy into forward motion. Sails come in various shapes and sizes depending on different factors such as wind conditions and desired speed. The art lies in skillfully adjusting these sails to achieve optimum efficiency.

Connected to these sails are sheets, lines that control their positioning relative to the wind direction. By adjusting these sheets, sailors can trim or angle their sails in such a way that they catch more or less wind, allowing them to control both speed and direction.

Now let’s turn our attention below deck where another essential mechanism awaits – the keel. Hidden beneath the waterline, this hefty fin-like structure serves two critical functions: stability and resisting sideways drift caused by winds pushing against the boat’s tall sails. The keel acts as a counterbalance for all that upward force from above, ensuring that despite powerful gusts trying to tip it over, a well-designed sailboat stays upright.

But how exactly does this oversized wing under your boat keep things from toppling over? It harnesses Bernoulli’s principle – inflateably simplified here as “fast-moving fluids cause decreased pressure” – so when water flows smoothly over the keel’s curved shape, it creates a higher pressure zone above it – helping counteract any force.

In order to fully comprehend the complex interplay between sails, rigging, and the keel, sailors must master the art of navigating sailboat terminology. For instance, understanding terms like “tacking” (changing direction by turning into the wind) and “jibing” (changing direction with the wind on your back) is crucial for maneuverability. Similarly, learning about different types of rigging systems such as sloop or cutter rigs enables sailors to optimize their boat’s performance in various wind conditions.

Sailing – an endeavor that balances elegance and technicality – has a language all its own. When you witness a sailboat cutting through waves at remarkable speed, gliding effortlessly against nature’s forces, you can’t help but appreciate the intricate machinery at work beneath its surface.

So next time you find yourself captivated by a sailboat gracefully skimming across the water, take a moment to appreciate the sheer brilliance behind its design. From harnessing wind power through sails and cleverly adjusting them with lines and sheets to utilizing Bernoulli’s principle with underwater keels – sailboats are truly engineering marvels that have stood the test of time. Embark on this exploration into their inner workings with us today and unlock a whole new level of appreciation for these majestic vessels!

5) From Wind to Waves: The Fascinating Science Behind How Sailboats Work

Sailboats have been cruising across oceans for centuries, harnessing the power of wind and waves to propel themselves forward. But have you ever wondered how these elegant vessels actually work? Behind their graceful exterior lies a fascinating world of science and engineering. Join us as we dive into the intricate mechanics that enable sailboats to navigate through the waters with precision.

At the heart of every sailboat is, of course, its sails. These large pieces of fabric are strategically positioned to catch the wind and convert its energy into forward motion. But it’s not just about turning your craft into a makeshift kite. The design and orientation of the sails play a crucial role in determining how efficient a sailboat can be.

One key principle behind sailing is Bernoulli’s principle, which states that an increase in speed accompanies a decrease in pressure. As the wind encounters the curved side (leeward) of the sail, it has to travel faster than over the flat side (windward). This generates lower air pressure on the leeward side compared to windward side, resulting in a net force that pushes the boat forward.

But there’s more to it than just letting air pressure do all the work. The shape and angle at which sails are set are carefully optimized depending on various factors such as wind direction and boat speed. By tweaking these variables, sailors can harness both lift force (similar to an airplane wing) and drag force to achieve maximum propulsion efficiency.

To control this complex interplay between forces, sailors rely on another scientific concept called “apparent wind.” Apparent wind refers to the combination of true wind (the actual direction from which air is blowing) and boat-generated winds caused by its own movement through still air.

By steering their boats at specific angles relative to apparent wind direction known as “points of sail,” sailors can manipulate how efficiently their sailboat moves upwind or downwind. For example, pointing directly against or near the true wind is known as “close-hauled” and allows sailors to make progress into the wind. Conversely, pointing at an angle away from the true wind, called “running,” enables maximum speed downwind.

But what about sailboats’ ability to sail against the wind? It may seem counterintuitive that a boat can make headway when faced with such an obstacle. The secret lies in tacking or zigzagging back and forth across the wind. By alternating between a close-hauled position on one tack and then switching to another tack, a sailor can still manage forward motion even if it’s not in a straight line.

Beyond taking advantage of wind forces, sailboats also leverage water dynamics for propulsion. As a vessel moves through water, it creates waves that diverge from its bow (the front). These waves ripple outward, forming what is known as a “bow wave.”

Here comes yet another fascinating scientific principle: constructive interference. As waves radiate from a sailboat’s bow, they encounter other waves generated by the hull moving through water. When these waves align and superpose constructively, they can provide additional forward thrust to bolster the boat’s speed.

Let’s not forget about steering! Sailors maneuver their vessels by using rudders or centerboards submerged beneath them. When these underwater appendages are deflected to one side or another, they create an opposing force called hydrodynamic lift. This lift force redirects water flow and generates torque that aids in changing directions.

In conclusion, sailing is far more than leisurely gliding across the water; it’s a remarkable blend of science and artistry. From harnessing Bernoulli’s principle to manipulating apparent wind angles and utilizing constructive interference with bow waves, every aspect of sailing involves intricate scientific principles meticulously woven together for efficient propulsion.

Next time you see a sailboat gracefully cutting through the waves, take a moment to appreciate all these hidden scientific marvels at play. And if you ever get the chance to set sail, pay attention to how these principles interact, as they transform a simple vessel into something truly extraordinary. Happy sailing!

6) Decoding the Mystery: A Comprehensive Breakdown of How Sailboats Function

Title: Decoding the Mystery: A Comprehensive Breakdown of How Sailboats Function

Introduction: Embarking on a sailing adventure is an unparalleled experience, gliding through the open waters, harnessing the power of the wind to propel you forward. But have you ever wondered about the inner workings of these majestic vessels? In this blog post, we will demystify sailboats and provide a comprehensive breakdown of how they function. Buckle up and prepare to set sail on a journey through nautical engineering!

Unveiling The Anatomy: To understand how sailboats operate, let’s start by examining their fundamental anatomy. At its core, a sailboat comprises three key components: the hull, rigging system, and sails. The hull acts as the foundation, providing buoyancy and stability in water. Meanwhile, the rigging system encompasses all the ropes and wires that control the direction and position of the sails. Lastly, we have sails – magnificent canvases seeking out every last breath of winds to push us towards new horizons.

Wind-Powered Propulsion: One might assume that with just sails catching the breeze, sailboats would move sporadically or solely downwind. However, it’s all about capturing kinetic energy from airflow! When positioned strategically in relation to wind direction – thanks to their versatile rigging systems – boats can generate lift similar to an airplane wing (yes, sailing involves some aerodynamics too!). This lift force propels them not only downwind but also upwind using an ingenious concept known as “sail trim.”

Sail Trim Secrets Revealed: “Sail trim” refers to precisely adjusting various elements like sail angle (known as heading), shape, tension on ropes (halyards), and control lines (sheets) that fine-tune sail performance based on wind conditions. An expert sailor understands how slight tweaks can dramatically impact speed and efficiency.

By trimming or adjusting different sections of a sail – including the leading edge (luff) and trailing edge (leech) – sailors can optimize airflow around the sail, enhancing lift and reducing drag. Moreover, manipulating the angle of attack with respect to wind direction allows them to exploit the Bernoulli effect, increasing speed by creating a pressure differential.

Playing With Forces: A symphony of forces comes into play as sailboats maneuver. The mighty elements at work include not only aerodynamic lift but also hydrodynamic balance provided by keels or centerboards beneath the hull. Keels generate an upward counterforce to keep boats from tilting sideways due to lateral winds while stabilizing their trajectory through resistance against drift.

Moreover, managing weight distribution within a boat is crucial for maintaining stability. Too much weight on one side can cause excessive heeling (tilting), while too little can hinder performance. Experienced sailors masterfully shift crew and equipment to ensure equilibrium in dynamic conditions – akin to dancers adapting their movements on a constantly shifting stage.

The Art of Tacking & Jibing: To truly grasp sailboat functioning, we must delve into the maneuvers used during sailing – tacking and jibing! Tacking involves changing direction against the wind by turning the bow through it. During this maneuver, sailors swiftly switch positions by adjusting sails and rerouting rigging systems purposefully.

Jibing is another turn involving wind coming from behind which requires altering course across downwind directions. Executing these turns correctly demands coordination, decision-making skills, and impeccable timing for swift adjustments that account for fluid dynamics, maintaining control over the vessel throughout.

Conclusion: Gaining insight into how sailboats function enhances our appreciation for these remarkable vessels as they weave seamlessly between artistry and engineering mastery. From capturing wind energy through intricate sail trims to harnessing power forces affecting stability with adept seamanship skills while tacking or jibing – a whole world lies beneath those billowing sails!

So next time you find yourself aboard a sailboat, take a moment to reflect on the elegance and complexity that enables this timeless mode of transportation. Whether you’re an avid sailor or a landlubber, understanding the inner workings of these nautical wonders will undoubtedly deepen your connection with and admiration for the enduring allure of the sea. Bon voyage!

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Wait, How Do Sailboats Work?

By Ross Beane | Nov. 13, 2018

...so here it is. As simple as I can tell it.

Photographs taken in the British Virgin Islands

18.423500 | -64.619827

How does a sailboat work? Even if you’ve sailed one you may not have a satisfactory answer to that question. It’s not very intuitive, how something that’s powered by the wind can go anywhere besides the direction the wind is going.

So here it is. As simple as I can tell it.

Imagine for a moment that you have a hard-boiled egg. You are holding it in one hand. Assuming that your hand is slippery enough, you squeeze the egg, and it pops upwards out of your clenched fist.

That’s how sailboats work. Two forces — the resistance of the water on the bottom of the boat and the wind blowing in the sails — come together to form a third force: the direction of the boat. The wind and water are the two sides of your hand coming together to squeeze the egg.

If you can squeeze an egg you can sail a boat.

This whole thing works because of the way an egg is shaped. By changing the shape of the egg you can direct where it goes when you squeeze: make the egg lopsided to turn left. Also, imagine if you could design the perfectly shaped egg to be the best possible shape for turning a squeeze into forward momentum.

Similarly, sailboats work because of the way sailboats are shaped. And to have maneuverability, to be able to go where you want in a sailboat, you change its shape accordingly. Using a steering wheel, which is attached to something called a rudder, the captain changes the shape of the bottom of the boat. The sails are connected to various lines that control their shape; effecting how the wind hits the top side of the boat.

This is where sailing is an art as much as a science. Take the wind, invisible to the naked eye, and the water, deceptively complex in its dynamics, and work them into combined force vectors using a collection of pulleys and lines and sheets of cloth rigged up on a floating home to get you where you need to go.

Wizardry that is.

Got it? Good. You are a sailor now.

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How do sailboats sail upwind?

Yachts aren’t blown along – they are ‘sucked along’.

The sail creates a low pressure zone in front of the sail and a high pressure zone behind the sail.

The boat moves into the low pressure zone and is sucked forward.

This is very like the idea of an aeroplane wing , which is curved in a similar way to a sailboat’s sail as you can see below.

In airplane wings, the pressure on the top of the wing is less than the pressure on the bottom of the wing, because the air moves faster on the top , so this difference in pressure creates a force on the wing that lifts the wing up into the air.

The curve on the sail makes the air travel a longer distance over the top of the wing and a shorter distance behind it.

The longer distance the air flows, the lower the pressure, and this is why the aircraft climbs into the sky.

Below the level of the water on the boat, the sailboat’s shape helps force the boat to go straight forward as opposed to in the direction of the wind.

In addition you have the keel that is shaped like a wing, and has a lot of weight to stop the yacht from falling over when pushed sideways by the wind.

With the sails being unable to push the boat sideways or onto its side, the sails drive the boat forward.

Sailing gives examples of physics: Newton's laws, vector subtraction, Archimedes' principle and others. This support page from asks

We introduce the physics of sailing to answer these and some other questions. But first:

A river runs straight from West to East at 10 knots. A 10 mile race is held: the boats sail downstream, from West to East. The first heat is held in the morning, when there is no wind. The second heat is held in the afternoon, when there is a 10 knot wind from the West. In which heat are the faster times recorded?

(Answer below.)

(parallel to the wind, like the boat at left) is easy to understand: the wind blows into the sails and pushes against them. The wind is than the boat so the air is by the sails. The sails push backwards against the wind, so the wind pushes forward on the sails. But for a boat with normal sails, the catch is that, downwind, you can only ever sail more slowly than the wind, even with a spinnaker. Which is comfortable, but not the most interesting sailing.

You know this force: In a strong wind, it is easier to walk, run or bicycle with the wind pushing on your back. Usually, the wind pushes you in the direction it is going.

upwind (exactly anti-parallel to the wind, like the boat at right) is also easy to understand: it's impossible ( ). You just sit there with your sails flapping. This is also not interesting sailing. But boats can sail at say 40° to the wind and, by tacking (alternate lines on either side of the wind direction) they can go where they like. So let's think about....

. Here is what my left hand looks like as I bicycle, signalling a left turn. If my hand is flat and horizontal, I just feel the drag force of the wind acting backwards. But if I tilt my hand up a little at the front, I feel lift force as well: the force on my hand is both upwards and backwards. The arrows show the wind speed relative to me. To get past my hand, the wind is deflected down, and this pushes my hand up (as well as back).

In this diagram, the quantities force and velocity have arrows, because they have a magnitude as well as a direction. Try this link for an .

uses the shape of the sails to generate lift. To flow around the sails, the wind has to deviate in direction, as shown by the arrows for initial velocity and final velocity , which are given with respect to the boat. The change of velocity dv is in the direction shown. The acceleration of the air is d /dt, so the force that sails exert on the air is in the same direction. (Newton's first and second laws: = m .) The force that the wind exerts on the sails is in the opposite direction. (There is also a , which contributes in a secondary way.)

Now this force is mainly sideways on the boat, and it gets more and more sideways as you get closer to the wind. However, part of the force is forward: the direction we want to go. So...

Well it does a little, but when it does, the , a large nearly flat area under the boat, has to push a lot of water sideways. The water resists this, and exerts the sideways force on the keel.

This cancels the sideways component of . As to the forwards component: it accelerates the boat until the drag force holding it back is big enough so that

= -{ + }. So a boat can sail close to the wind: typically 45° to the true wind, although many high performance boats go closer than that. And it feels closer than 45°, as we'll see in diagrams below.

So now back to our question:

Lots of boats can – especially the on Sydney Harbour. Ask a sailor how, and he'll say "These boats are so fast that they make their own wind", which is actually true. Ask a physicist, and she'll say that it's just a question of vectors and relative velocities.

Downwind (diagram at left) is easy. If the wind is 10 kt, and the boat makes 6 kt in the same direction, then the crew feels a wind of 4 kt coming over the stern of the boat. The true wind equals the speed of the boat plus the relative wind . The equation = + tells us the problem: as the boat speed approaches the wind speed, the relative wind drops towards zero and so there is no force on the sail. So you can't go faster than the wind. When the wind is at an angle, we have to add the arrows representing these velocities (vector addition). Upwind (right), exactly the same equation holds: = + .

The faster that the boat goes, the greater the relative wind, the more force there is on the sails, so the greater the force dragging the boat forwards. So the boat accelerates until the drag from the water balances the forward component of the force from the sails.

In a fast boat, there's no point going straight downwind: you can never go faster than the wind. So you travel at an angle. But if your boat is fast enough, then the relative wind always seems to be coming mainly from ahead of you, as these arrows show. So the eighteen footers never set ordinary spinnakers: they have asymmetrical sails that they can set even when they are travelling at small angles to the apparent wind.

from National Geographic , which has a range of resources. , courtesy of Sailboat Technology. to multiply your force? . has links to weather services, marine services and other information. and the reasons behind the major ocean currents and winds. . .

from Univ. of Maryland. . The and other schools from the provided educational material for the , whence this page. Details at and .

. The faster heat is the one with no wind. When the wind and the water move W to E at 10 kt, the boats drift down the river at 10 kt, with their sails hanging limp. In the heat with no wind (as measured on the land), a drifting boat has a headwind of 10 kt. You can tack into that.

Of course, you don't get something for nothing. In the heat with wind, the river does very little work on the boat. In the heat without wind, it exerts much greater force on the boat, in particular on the keel or centreboard. Much of that work goes into disturbing the air downwind of the boat's sails.

Tricky? The man in the photo at right did a lot of sailing on rivers: he would have known that. sails a classic sloop called

Happy birthday, theory of relativity!

How Do Sailboats Sail into the Wind?

It seems intuitive that sailboats, powered only by the wind, can travel easily with the wind at their backs, but it may seem impossible that they turn around and come home again, with the wind blowing straight against them.

But this reverse movement is possible because a moving boat's sail is shaped as an airfoil like the wing of a plane. When air moves over a plane's wing, from front to back, wind flowing over the top of the wing has to travel farther than wind flowing under the wing's bottom surface. This creates a pressure difference that lifts the plane.

On a sailboat, wind blowing against the boat at an angle inflates the sail, and it forms a similar foil shape, creating a difference in pressure that pushes the sail perpendicular to the wind direction.

According to "The Physics of Sailing Explained" (Sheridan House Inc, 2003), by Kent State University physics professor Bryon D. Anderson, this force from the sail's foil shape is combined with and balanced by other forces, including those of the boat's keel (the long thin piece that juts down from the bottom of the boat).

Together, the forces of drag, from the water, and the pressure from the wind against the sail itself push the craft forward. It moves at an angle opposite the direction of the wind, called windward in sailing terminology.

According to the American Institute of Physics' Physics Today magazine, the keel is especially important because without its balancing action, a boat would simply drift downwind.

Windward sailing also does not work if a boat is pointed directly opposite the wind direction, according to The Physics of Sailing. Wind has to be moving against the boat at an angle of at least 40 degrees for most vessels. Angling too sharply into the wind causes the forces on the boat to become unbalanced, and moves the boat sideways in the water.

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A sailor intending to travel windward toward a point exactly in line with the direction of the wind will have to zig zag back and forth to reach its target. Using this "tacking" technique, and traveling at an angle as close to the wind's direction as possible, sailors can reach a point in any direction, regardless of the direction of wind.

Got a question? Email it to Life's Little Mysteries and we'll try to answer it. Due to the volume of questions, we unfortunately can't reply individually, but we will publish answers to the most intriguing questions, so check back soon.

There's an acidic zone 13,000 feet beneath the ocean surface — and it's getting bigger

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James Webb telescope detects signs of rust on priceless, metal-rich asteroid Psyche

How Do Sails Work? The Science Behind Sailing

NESS Foundation
July 17th, 2019

We love getting students from all walks of life out on the water! We also love to teach the STEM principles behind our sailing and adventure sports! Have you ever wondered how a piece of canvas helps you sail? Read on to learn about the science behind sailing.

The goal of sailing is to go with the wind in the right way to create enough velocity. In small sailboats there are usually two people per boat, the skipper and the crew. The skipper must control the main sail and steer. The crew is in charge of managing the smaller sail, the jib. The jib is a triangular sail fixed to the bow that improves the aerodynamics of the sails. The more sail area, the faster you will go.

For the sail to move with the wind, the sail must remain convex, so that the wind can continuously increase the pressure on the sail. While there are many ways to steer a sailboat, some are more effective than others. These positions are called points of sail. The points of sail are arranged like a clock, where the wind is blowing from 12 o’clock towards 6 o’clock and the way your boat is facing, is the hands. If the boat is facing directly into the wind, this point of sail is called “in irons”. You will not be able to sail, because the sail won’t be able to catch any wind. Some of the most efficient points of sail are those that allow sailors to position the sails so that they are close to the boat so that the wind can form a channel for the boat to pass through.

The Principles of Lift and Drag

The physical property of aerodynamic lift allows your boat to move forward even if the wind is not directly behind the boat. Lift is the force that opposes the weight of an object and holds it up in the air. For example, imagine holding your arm out the window of a moving car. You can feel the force of the wind lifting your hand up and back. Similarly, the wind blows against the sail from the side, this creates a force to the side and forward. The keel or centerboard, a heavy weighted part of the boat located at the bottom, helps keep the boat moving forward by providing a counter-force.

The opposite of lift is drag. Drag causes friction on the sail, hull, and centerboard/keel. So what can you do to reduce drag? Keep the mainsail trimmed! This will help develop as much power as possible and help the skipper to steer in the right direction. You can trim the sail by remembering those points of sail and using the sail to create lift. Keeping the weight of sailors in the boat will also help keep the boat balanced and will reduce drag.

Upwind Sailing

Usually, sailors want to be pushed by the wind. This is called downwind sailing. But what if you want to travel in the same direction that the wind is coming from? Unfortunately, a boat can’t sail directly into the wind, but it can sail in any direction that is greater than 45 degrees to the wind. If you have the patience to zig zag your way upwind, you can sail any direction you want! You can accomplish this by tacking. Tacking is a sailing maneuver that allows a boat to sail its bow towards the wind. This makes the wind blow on the other side of the sail so that you can make a turn and continue sailing upwind. By continuously tacking to either side of where the wind is blowing from, you will be able to reach your destination!

Interested in getting out on the water to try out these maneuvers yourself? Learn more about our adult and child sailing programs!

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How Sailboats Work

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Sailboats are one of humankind's first and most revolutionary transportation inventions. Powered mainly by the wind, these simple but incredible machines opened up new pathways for international trade, exploration and cultural exchange, which shaped the modern world.

Although no one knows when the first sailboat was built, archeologists have found remains of primitive canoe-like vessels dating back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Since then, boat design has developed steadily to enhance speed, maneuverability and cargo load, reflecting unique aesthetic and technological innovations.

For example, to construct their signature dragon-headed boats, Vikings used axes rather than saws to cut longer, lighter pieces of wood that allowed for faster travel. These longboats, called drakkar , dominated the seas by taking advantage of wind in their square sail for long distances and of oarsmen for swift attacks [source: Hadingham]. Later, 15th-century Chinese junk boats with their distinct scalloped sails were so well-crafted to withstand regional typhoons that they reached the east coast of Africa and the Persian Gulf more than 50 years before European explorers [source: University of Calgary ]. Today, specialized racing yachts slice through the water at speeds faster than the wind.

While these amazing ships range in size and capability, all are linked by the fundamental elements of the common sailboat. Whether large or small, vessels of the past and present share the same flotation and movement abilities. In this article, we are going to explore how the basic parts of a sailboat work together, how physics principles allow them to float and move and how sailboat design continues to evolve.

Basic Parts of a Sailboat

How sailboats float, how sailboats move in the water, the physics of lift, a closer look at the sailboat keel, sailboat speed, modern sailboat design.

The common sailboat comprises eight essential parts: hull, tiller, rudder, mainsail, mast, boom, jib and keel. The hull is the shell of the boat, which contains all the internal components. Its symmetrical shape balances the sailboat and reduces drag , or the backward pull caused by friction, as it moves in the water. Inside of the hull in the stern , or back of the boat, is the tiller, which is attached to the rudder in the water. Think of the tiller as the boat's steering wheel and the rudder as the tire. To maneuver a sailboat to the right, for example, you pull the tiller to the right side of the boat, causing the rudder to alter its direction.

If you think of the tiller as the steering wheel, then the sails and the keel are the engines. The mainsail is the larger sail that captures the bulk of the wind power necessary to propel the sailboat. Its vertical side attaches to the mast , a long upright pole, and its horizontal side secures to the boom, a long pole parallel to the deck. Sailors can rotate the boom 360 degrees horizontally from the mast to allow the mainsail to harness as much wind as possible. When they pivot the boom perpendicular to the wind, the mainsail puffs outward. Conversely, it goes slack when swung parallel to the wind. This freedom of movement allows sailors to catch the wind at whatever angle it blows. The jib is the smaller, fixed triangular sail that adds additional power for the mainsail. The keel , a long, slim plank that juts out from the bottom of the hull, provides an underwater balancing force that keeps the boat from tipping over. In smaller sailboats, a centerboard or daggerboard serves the same purpose as the keel, but can be raised or lowered into the water to allow for shallow water sailing.

Before a boat can move in the water, it first must be able to float. In the next section, we'll discover how something as heavy as a sailboat can stay afloat.

If the Jetsons owned a yacht, it would probably look a lot like the Maltese Falcon. The prized possession of Silicon Valley venture capitalist Tom Perkins, the Maltese Falcon is like a sailing computer, equipped with fiber-optic networks, microprocessors and touch screens that have converted the brain and muscle of sailing into a computerized control panel. Now, the only manpower required to hoist and lower its 26,000 square feet of sails is a touch of a button. Likewise, the football-field-sized yacht completed in spring of 2006 is the most expensive and technologically advanced of its kind today. With a price tag hovering around $130 million, the Maltese Falcon navigates more like a video game than a 1,367-ton boat. But Perkins isn't stopping there. He's working on a sports submarine to house on the Maltese Falcon in case he ever wants to play with some whales or manatees deep in the ocean. Think of it as his version of a jet ski.

Floating depends on two things: displacement and density . Archimedes' principle , which explains the concept of buoyancy, states that in order for an object to float, it must displace an amount of water equal to its weight. As a sailboat's weight pushes downward and displaces water beneath it, an upward force equal to that weight holds the boat up.

Here's where density comes into play. To displace enough water to remain afloat without becoming submerged, a boat must have an average density less than water. For that reason, the hull of the boat is hollow. Whether the boat is made of concrete or fiberglass, its average density is less than water. Think about it: If you put a basketball and a bowling ball in a swimming pool, the air-filled basketball has an average density much less than that of water, so it will float. The solid bowling ball, however, will sink immediately. This is how anything from a small sailboat to an aircraft carrier can manage to stay on top of the water.

Surface area also helps to keep the boat afloat. More surface area gives an object a better chance to displace enough water to offset its own weight. For instance, a small ball of clay likely will sink before it can displace the amount of water equal to its weight. But if you flatten the ball into a thin pancake, there is more surface area to distribute the weight across and displace the water, so it will float. For more information on precisely how a steel ship can float, read how boats made of steel float on water when a bar of steel sinks.

Now that we know how sailboats can float, we can learn how they zip through the water.

Simple. Look at the nutrition facts. An average can of regular soda contains about 40 grams, or 20 teaspoons, of sugar, which increases its average density. The diet soda only contains artificial sweeteners. These sweeteners are much more concentrated than sugar so it takes less to sweeten the soda. As a result, the diet soda's average density is less than the regular soda's. That lighter average density allows the diet soda to float.

Sailing a boat is simple when you're navigating downwind with the wind at your back. You let out the mainsail perpendicular to the wind to capture the most energy. As the wind presses directly into the sails to make them puff out, that natural force propels the boat forward.

Plotting an upwind course, against the wind, is much harder. Compare the difference between running with the wind behind you and running with the wind gusting at you. You exert more energy to run into it, rather than enjoying the gentle push of it at your back. In fact, it is impossible to sail directly upwind. Either the opposing force of the wind will push the boat backward if the sails are let out, or it will stall the boat if the sails are pulled in and slack. Sailors refer to this as being in irons . Instead, to reach an upwind destination, crews use a method calling tacking .

While the wind pushes the boat when going away from it (downwind) the opposite happens when going toward it (upwind). "When you sail upwind, the boat is actually being pulled rather than pushed by the force of the wind," says Bryan Kelly, sailing instructor at Sail Newport and membership assistant with US Sailing , the national governing body of sailing in the United States. That forward pull is referred to as lift . For that reason, sailors steering upwind must take a zigzagging path called tacking. By doing so, the wind approaches at an angle rather than head-on.

When tacking, the sails act as the engine of the boat, harnessing wind power. However, since the boat is moving angled to the wind, that wind power pushes the boat sideways. But remember that the wind isn't the only element the boat interacts with. There's also the water. As the boat tips to one side, the long, flat keel submerged underneath the hull, pivots upward with the motion of the boat, creating a sideways force in the opposite direction because of the amount of water it displaces as it moves.

When tacking successfully, these equal, opposing sideways forces cancel each other out. However, that collected wind power must go somewhere, so it is released in a forward thrust -- there is nowhere else it can go. This is the same type of effect that happens when you shoot a marble. Your finger and thumb press equally hard on either side of the marble, causing it to zip forward.

After this happens, the sailor would alter course and tack again toward the opposite direction to gradually move upwind.

In the next section, we'll dissect the physics of lift that pull sailboats forward into the wind and what they have in common with kites.

[Source: Cox ]

Starboard - on the right side
Port - on the left side
Stern - back of the boat
Bow - front of the boat
In irons - when the boat is going directly upwind and can't catch wind in the sails
Luff up - direct the sailboat into the wind
True wind - the speed and direction of the wind as felt by a bystander on shore
Apparent wind - what you feel while the ship's moving; a combination of the true wind and the wind that the boat's motion creates.
Trim sails - setting sails for maximum efficiency

When you see a kite catch the wind and swoop up into the air, you're witnessing lift . You can feel the forward acceleration in the pull on your end of the string. Likewise, the mainsail and jib harness wind energy with their aerodynamic shapes that puff out on one side when the wind hits them. You also might notice that the kite flies angled to the wind, just as the mainsail and jib capture wind when tacking.

Sailing aficionados use two prominent -- yet often disputed -- theories to explain how exactly the wind interaction generates lift: Bernoulli's theorem and Newton's Third Law.

Bernoulli's theorem, also called the Longer Path Explanation , explains lift in terms of high and low air pressures on either side of the sail. Imagine the front of the boat angled upwind, or into the wind. As the breeze hits the sails, the air particles rush over both sides. Theoretically, the air particles moving across the outer, convex side of the sail have a longer distance to travel in the same amount of time as the particles moving across the inner, concave side.

If the particles on the outer side are traveling farther in the same amount of time, they must have a higher velocity, or speed, than the particles on the other side. These higher-velocity particles have more room to spread out, forming a low-pressure area. On the inside of the sail, the slower air particles are packed together more densely, creating a higher-pressure area. This difference in the pressure on the sails acts as a forward suction, producing lift.

Lift also applies to airplane flight. For a more detailed explanation of lift and the Bernoulli and Newtonian theories, read How Airplanes Work.

Newton's Third Law describes lift in terms of the reaction of the wind's air particles to the mainsail and jib. The law states that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. As the wind hits the sails from an opposing direction (remember, you're sailing upwind to tack), it generates drag , or backward pull. Drag is parallel to the original wind current [source: Swimmers wear specialized suits and caps to reduce drag as much as possible in the water.

Examining lift through the Newtonian lens, the air particles' movement creates an equal, opposite reaction -- or forward pull. It can also be applied to the interaction of the sails and the keel, described in the previous section. The sails and the keel create equal and opposite reactions to focus the boat's energy forward rather than sideways.

Now we'll examine the keel more in depth to see how it contributes to lift and keeps the boat from tipping over when tacking.

Although the date the world's first sailboat was built is unclear, in 2002 British and Kuwaiti archeologists discovered what they believe to be the oldest known boat remains in As-Sabiyah, Kuwait. The remains date back to around 5400 B.C., according to a Science Magazine article by Andrew Lawler. The supposed vessel is plank-shaped and constructed from reeds and bitumen, a gummy substance similar to tar. While carbon dating has verified its age, some researchers remain dubious about whether the object was indeed a boat.

The keel has two main functions: to keep the boat from being blown sideways in the wind (lateral resistance) and to hold the ballast. The ballast is a weight traditionally at the bottom of the keel that keeps the boat right-side up.

When the sails interact with the wind, a lot is also happening underwater to help create lift and allow the craft to recover from tacking. When a boat heels , or tips sideways in one direction when tacking, the ballast prevents it from going completely over. Positioned beneath the sailboat toward the center of the hull's underbelly, the keel's broad, flat surface creates sideways force by displacing water in the opposite direction that the boat is tipping. Although the keel has a much smaller surface area than the sails, the density of the water allows it to initiate a force strong enough to cancel out the heeling motion. That resulting equilibrium is called the righting moment .

You're probably familiar with the strong force of the keel if you've used a canoe paddle to change a canoe's direction. Although the paddle has a relatively small surface area, when turned against the current, you can feel the strength of its resistance as it becomes harder to hold.

Given this delicate balance among the wind, water and boat, sailors must tack carefully to avoid capsizing the boat, monitoring the angle at which they tack. If they tack the boat at too tight of an angle, the force of the wind will be too great for the keel and the water to overcome.

The maximum angle that a boat can tack and recover from is 30 degrees [source: US Sailing]. Sailors can tell the angle at which they approach the wind thanks to telltales , or strands of yarn-like material attached to the mainsail. Depending on how they blow when the sails are pulled tightly, they reveal the angle to the wind. Ideally, they will blow straight out, indicating even airflow across the sails and the optimum tacking angle. This is referred to as banging the corners , or sailing efficiently.

Read on to learn just how fast these wind machines move.

Here are a few sailing-related sayings in case you ever find yourself tongue-tied at sea.

Toe the line : Planks in wooden ships were sealed with a dark substance, giving the appearance of a striped deck. When ordered to line up, crews would keep themselves aligned by stepping their toes directly up to one of those stripes.

Boot camp : A training camp for Navy or Marine recruits. The term originated from sailors fighting in the Spanish-American War who wore leggings called boots.

Down the hatch : Comes from the idea of cargo being loaded down into the hatch below the deck.

Show one's true colors : Warships would try to deceive their enemies by hanging different countries' flags. However, to open fire on an enemy, the civilized rules of war required them to fly their nation's true flag.

Now that we understand how the boat moves, let's get to the good stuff: speed. A vessel's top speed will vary, depending on its size and purpose. For instance, sleek racing sailboats are designed specifically to maximize speed, but larger, bulkier ships will plod along more slowly due to drag and friction.

The nautical measurement of speed is the knot. One knot is equal to about 1.15 mph. According to the Earth. You can read more about how nautical miles compare to miles and kilometers by reading What is a nautical mile?.

Since Thebault was going 48 mph, you may be wondering if that means the wind was blowing that fast. Probably not. Thebault likely was moving faster than the wind because when sailboats create lift, as we discussed earlier, they create their own additional wind, called apparent wind .

It's important to understand that there are two types of wind at work when sailing: true wind and apparent wind. You feel true wind when you're standing on the dock or if the boat anchors. This wind makes the waves in the water. Apparent wind is what you feel while the ship's moving -- a combination of the true wind and the wind that the boat's motion creates. This is the wind that powers the ship.

So it is possible for some boats to beat the wind, particularly slimmer, more aerodynamic models that have less drag or friction in the water, such as yachts and catamarans . But remember, to sail faster than the wind, these types of boats must travel at an angle to it, rather than straight downwind or upwind, to stimulate lift and accelerate apparent wind.

As sailing technology advances, boats are becoming faster and more efficient than ever before.

Modern sailboat design has evolved overall to create a wider, yet sleeker, structure. While the width increases stability, other basic components have been refined to improve sailing efficiency.

Keels are often longer and leaner, allowing for a closer, quicker tack . Their larger surface area displaces more water for a tighter tack. The hydrodynamic, slender design cuts through the water with less drag . Likewise, designers have honed the hull to reduce pull in the water. New materials such as energy. Sail shape also has been continually fine-tuned to harness wind.

Due to such innovations, some sailboats, as previously noted, can actually exceed the speed of the wind. Hydrofoils , which elevate the hull above the water, drastically reduce friction between the boat and the water to maximize speed. In short, hydrofoils act like airplane wings on the bottom of boats [source: Getchall]. They have four appendages that resemble water skis with a rounded top attached to each corner of the boat. When stationary, the hydrofoils remain underwater. But as the boat speeds up, they create lift that eventually raises the hull completely above water, leaving only the lighter aerodynamic foils in the water. The same lift principles discussed earlier with the wind and the sails apply as the water rushes over the curved hydrofoils to create the same effect.

In addition, specialized iceboats that sail on top of ice can travel up to three times faster than the speed of the wind. A Blade Runner iceboat, for instance, can move as fast as 75 mph [source: Blade Runner Ice Boat Company ]. Like a boat on ice skates with a simple hull and sails, iceboats have very little drag as they glide across frozen bodies of water. Not surprisingly, they're especially popular in colder climates such as New England, Canada and Russia.

As the evolution continues as it has for centuries, sailboats will undoubtedly hold their integral place in human life, whether for utilitarian purposes or pure windblown pleasure.

Lots More Information

How Do Sailboats Work?

To a casual observer, a sailboat makes perfect sense. Wind pushes the boat forward on the water. The boat goes in the direction of the wind. The true physics of sailing a boat are definitely more complicated. How do you sail against the wind? Why does the sailboat move forward if wind hits the sails from the side? How do you sail perpendicular to the wind? How does a sailboat move faster than the wind?

There’s a lot to understand about how sailboats work . Much of it is not obvious at first. You need to understand your boat design and drag force. Also point of sail and beam reach. The direction of the wind is just one piece of the puzzle. Once you understand it all, sailing becomes much easier.

Let’s take a look at the physics of sails and wind, and how they work together. Understanding these forces is key for any sailor who wants to master sailing. At least in the true “wind in your sails” sense of the word.

How Does a Sailboat Sail?

The physics of how a sailboat sails does depend on wind direction. Sailing your boat downwind with the wind at your back is easy to understand. Wind fills the sails and pushes the boat forward on the water. At angles, it takes more of an understanding of physics to explain.

Sails on a boat work like the wings of an airplane. Both create aerodynamic lift to move an object. In the case of a boat, even when wind comes from the side, it moves the boat forward.

If you viewed a sailboat from above, it would resemble the wing of an airplane. The difference would just be that it seems to be on its end.

Air hits your sails and makes lift. Some of the force is lost thanks to friction. Some of that force pushes your boat forward. The rest would push the sailboat sideways if it could. But it can’t, and this is where the aerodynamics of your sail meet the hydrodynamics of the keel.

Because the boat has a keel or centerboard, it can move forward. This part of your sailboat extends under the water. It balances the boat and keeps it running straight. Without a keel, your sailboat would drift wherever the wind pushes it. However, the keel acts with the sails to make forward motion. There will be a small amount of sideways motion as well. This is how your sailboat is able to sail.

As your hull and keel resist sideways motion, that force is translated into motion. When you are sailing upwind, the wind needs to travel smoothly front the front of the sail to the back. If it doesn’t, you won’t be moving far. This can be hard for new sailors to master.

The Orange Seed Test

A fun example of how to understand the forward motion is to get a seed from an orange. These are roughly the same shape as a boat’s keel. Put the seed on a smooth table and then squish it with your thumb. The seed will squirt out from under your thumb in a forward direction. The same basic principle applies to your sailboat. Force applied to it redirects as forward motion.

What Does Point of Sail Mean On a Sailboat?

The sails on your sailboat can be rigged at different angles. This is essential for catching and making use of wind. These angles are called point of sail. You need to alter the angle as you sail when the wind changes. Otherwise you will lose that forward motion that you want.

Adjusting the sails is called trimming them. You do this by adjusting the tension of the line, called a sheet, attached to the sail. When you pull the sheet in, it moves the sail towards the center of the boat. When you let the tension out, or sheet it, it lets the sail out.

It can be hard to master trimming the sails. The wind is rarely cooperative. It may come in at constantly changing angles. You will need to adjust accordingly. This is a learning process, and no one is an expert sailor their first time out.

Trimming Sails Upwind

It can be hard to trim the sails when you are sailing upwind. The angle of the sail needs to be just right to allow proper airflow. If you have sheeted too far out or in, it will not work. You will not get that wing shape you want, and you will stall out in the water.

The easiest way to trim your sails upwind is by trial and error. Sheet your sails out until they flap loosely. This flapping is called luff. Then sheet the sail back in slowly. Watch the shape and tension of the sail. When it smooths out and curves there is no more luff. This is where you want it to be.

How to Turn Upwind

Turning upwind is called heading up. Sometimes it is called bearing up or pointing up. If you push the tiller towards the sail and away from yourself, you are turning upwind. The sails need to be trimmed along with the turning. The angle of the wind is going to change. If the sails are not sheeted, you will lose the wind.

Trimming Sails Perpendicular to the Wind

Treat winds perpendicular the same as upwind. The process of trimming the sails will be the same. Smooth out the luff and proceed on course once you have that wing shape.

Trimming Sails Downwind

Despite what you may think, trimming sails downwind can be hard. The sails will naturally parachute or balloon in the wind. To control them takes work. You need to try to get the sail perpendicular to the wind. This will expose the maximum surface of the sail. Thus, you get the most lift. Again, this is a trial and error process to get it right.

How to Turn Downwind

Turning downwind is also called falling off. This is also called bearing away or pointing down. You do this by turning the tiller towards yourself and away from the sail. Like turning upwind, the sail needs to be adjusted. You will have to sheet out to maintain your course.

What is Tacking?

When you want to sail into the wind, you need to engage in what is called tacking. A sailboat cannot head directly into the wind on a straight course. This puts you in the No Go Zone. The angles we mentioned earlier, or points of sail, can be divided on different tacks. There are port tacks and starboard tacks. They divide around the boat very similar to how a clock looks. Tack, then, has two different meanings. An angle relates to the wind and also the directional corrections you make into the wind.

You need to be about 45 degrees off the wind in any direction to keep sailing. In the No Go Zone, your boat is dead in the water. You will need to engage in a maneuver calling tacking to get out of it. This involves sailing in a zig zag pattern. The direction of the wind will shift from one side of the boat to the other. This allows you to keep moving towards the wind. It will keep you on course, it just may take more time.

How Do You Tack?

Learning how to tack is a process. It’s not always simple. Try the following steps to tack into the wind.

Turn towards the wind by pushing the tiller towards the sail. Do this in a slow and controlled manner.
As the boat turns, step across the board without letting go of the tiller or the main sheet.
The sail will tack when it switches sides. When this happens, sit down on the new side of the boat, opposite the sail.
Center the boat again so that you’re on a straight course.
You’ll need to switch hands here. But don’t let go of the mainsheet or the tiller. Run the hand holding the sheet along the mainsheet until you have the tiller. Then let go of the tiller with your other hand.
Now you can grab the sheet with your free hand, having successfully switched.
Trim your sail as necessary. You have just tacked in one direction. If you need to keep heading into the wind, you will need to tack back by repeating the process in reverse. This can continue as long as necessary to get you where you want to go. The end result is a zig zag through the water.

How Do You Control Speed in a Sailboat?

When the wind really picks up, a sailboat can move extremely fast. Sailboats can go from 4 miles per hour to nearly 20 miles per hour. So how do you stop that when you need to?

If your boat is travelling upwind and needs to stop, sheet your sails. Let them luff briefly, which will disrupt the speed of your boat. You can sheet back in again when you are ready.

Downwind is harder. There is little resistance from the water on your boat in this direction. You can sheet your sails in to slow the boat down somewhat. However, your momentum will still carry you for some time.

You can point the bow of a boat upwind to stop. Alternately, you can point the boat perpendicular to the wind and luff the sails. Downwind, however, you have no options to stop a boat.

How Do Some Boats Sail Faster Than the Wind?

This has to do with a phenomenon called apparent wind. Apparent wind is the wind you feel on your face as you move forward. True wind is the wind that is blowing naturally.

If you can imagine riding your bicycle on a day when there is no wind whatsoever, you still feel wind on your face (apparent wind) and it gets stronger as you go faster. That is because your forward motion is creating its own wind. If you were to ride your bike on a day when there was a 5 mile per hour wind behind you and you were pedaling at 5 miles per hour, the two winds (true and apparent) would cancel each other and you would not feel any wind at all.

Boats that are able to sail faster than the true wind are “creating their own wind”. Generally these are fast catamarans and iceboats, although some racing monohulls may be able to achieve this. The apparent wind is the wind that the boat sails in. Usually, you can sail faster at 70 degrees to 80 degrees off the apparent wind (called a “close reach”) than you can with the wind directly behind you.

This is because you can trim the sails so that the wind flows over them to create a lift, much like an airplane wing, that propels the boat. As you can see, there is a positive force against the inside of the sail, and a negative force pulling the outside of the sail. (You can try this by holding your hand out of the window of a moving car (With your parent’s permission, please!). Rotate your hand to feel how the wind pushes and pulls on it at different angles.)

Under optimum conditions, the apparent wind is greater than the true wind. Let’s say you are on a fast catamaran and sailing in a true wind of 10 knots. By moving very fast through the water you may be able to create an apparent wind of 20 knots which may allow you to sail at 12 to 13 knots, which is faster than the true wind. (Friction will keep you from moving as fast as the apparent wind.)

My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

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How Do Sailboats Work Without Wind?

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

When it comes to sailing, the momentum that's brought about by wind is exactly what propels your sailboat. But what happens when there's no wind and it feels like the sailboat is sitting on the water going nowhere? Well, the sails will become slack and your sailboat will just drift along. So unless you have oars or a motor attached to a propeller, you might not go anywhere.

Although the total absence of wind is physically impossible when out there on the water, it can sometimes happen and you may be wondering what to do with your sailboat as it mainly relies on the wind. Of course, it will feel eerily strange because your sailboat will just drift along given that a sailboat with no wind has no propulsion. So whether the wind is blocked by land or there's just no wind on the water, it's of great importance to know how sailboats work without wind.

When sailing there are those weird times when it may feel like there's no wind to propel your sailboat. In most cases, you'll have two options when there are no winds to propel your boat. You can either choose to row your sailboat, which can be very exhausting or you can resort to the motors if they're attached to your propellers.

But if these options aren't available for you, then you may have to tide over and just float with the tides and wait for the wind to return. In essence, you may have to make a small amount of wind work until a larger amount of wind is available.

In this brief article, we'll highlight how you can get around when there's no wind to propel your sailboat.

Table of contents

Know Various Parts of Your Sailboat

Sailboats are not like cars. You definitely know that you can drive your car without necessarily knowing how the car's piston or engine works. All you have to do is use the ignition to turn on the engine, shift into the required gear, step on the gas pedal and you'll be good to go. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of a sailboat. Well, you have to play a far more active role in bringing together and harnessing the power that propels the sailboat forward, which in this case, is the wind.

Without having the winds in your sails, the boat will not move forward. Instead, you'll only drift along and get stuck in the neutral. Worst still, you can easily capsize. As such, it's of great importance to have a good grasp of how the wind works in propelling a sailboat and what you can do without it.

When there are forces of the wind on the sails, it's referred to as aerodynamics and can propel the sailboat by lifting it in the same way the winds lift an airplane wing. Generally, the force of the wind that lifts and propels the sailboat often contains sideways force and small forward force and so you need to trim the sails accordingly so that you can experience the least resistance. But what happens when there's no wind? Well, here's what you can do.

You can rely on Hydrodynamics of the Water Flow

As we noted earlier, it's physically impossible to have a total absence of wind while out there on the water. But even if it happens, which is of course very rare, you can rely on the heat from the warm zone to the cold zone, which will definitely create some form of hydrodynamics or flow, which would then create currents to at least propel your sailboat even if not in the same way as the winds.

In terms of relativity, strong winds may not be of great help to you when it comes to propelling your sailboat if it's accompanied by insignificant currents. Similarly strong currents with insignificant winds may not be of much help in propelling a sailboat. However, many modern sailboats are designed in such a way that they can work just fine even when there are strong currents with insignificant winds without a lot of modifications.

The most important thing is to ensure that the sails of your boat are relative to the existing strong currents. For example, if the existing currents have a speed of 15 knots, it would be easier to propel your sailboat using the same exact techniques you'd use when you have the winds or 15 knots. The idea here is the many modern sailboats are designed with hydrodynamic engineering techniques that make them feel as if you have 15 knots winds when the currents are at 15 knots.

The only difference may revolve around the fact that in addition to the normal sailing speed that you're managing, you also have to manage the 15 knots offset in the direction of the currents. This explanation may seem complex from the onset but it's pretty much easy. When there's no wind and you're trying to sail with the current, it means that you're technically trying to sail upwind, so you have to apply the similar techniques that you always use when sailing upwind.

Sailing with the Current

Simply put, sailing upwind means that you're sailing exactly anti-parallel to the wind. This revolves around the wind blowing into the sails and pushing against them. The science behind this is that the wind is faster than a sailboat, which leads to the air getting decelerated by the sails. The sails will push back against the wind so the wind pushes forward on the sails. It's a lot easier to sail upwind because the wind pushes you in the same direction it is going but it may not offer the most interesting way of sailing.

The same can be said when you have to rely on the currents when there are no winds. The only difference is that the currents will push the keel if you're sailing in the direction of the currents.

Sailing against the Current

The problems revolving around sailing without winds may start sneaking up their heads when you're sailing against the currents. You will most likely drift along, remain afloat, or even make negative progress. As such, the best thing is to deal with the situation by tiding over and doing your best to remain afloat until the winds fill up your sails.

You have to remember that it's almost impossible to control the direction of your sailboat by just relying on a single strong current. Generally, a sailboat can only go in a different direction from the direction in which the wind is blowing because it has a second sail, which is the keel under the water. But because you can no longer use the actual sails, you only have the keel and it will be impossible to apply both the aerodynamic forces of the wind and the hydrodynamic forces of the water currents, and your sailboat will most likely remain stagnant or make a negative process if you have to travel against the currents with no winds.

On the contrary, if you're drifting the direction of the very fast currents, you'll get your sailboat moving even when the wind speed over land is zero. Of course, you won't get lots of speed but you'll make some progress.

Relying on Propellers

If your sailboat has motor propellers, then it will be pretty much easy to propel your sailboat even when there are no winds. The propeller works by literally using a portion of the forward energy to propel the sailboat forward while directing the same energy back to the propeller to blow backward. This then creates additional energy and an additional thrust in some form of a domino effect or an amplifying cycle.

So if you anticipate that a time may come that your sailboat might have to work without wind, you can choose to fit your sailboat with a folding or feathering propeller to give you an extra knot when the sails seem not to be the reliable option just because there are no winds. Many modern propellers are designed not just to minimize drag but also in a position perpendicular to the water flow. This is to help them have a neutral cutting edge to the water and can propel the boat ahead.

If your sailboat does not have motor propellers and you do not want to rely on the currents, your remaining option would be to go back to the good old days when muscles were the order of the day. You can do it the way Egyptians and Romans used to do by rowing your boat. This can be quite exhausting but it's good for your body and soul if you have to move forward at all costs.

The idea here is that you have to be your own wind by creating opportunities for yourself. Rowing will be tiresome but it can give you the right momentum that you need when the wind comes back. So if there is no wind, no propellers, and the currents are working against you, rowing could be an ideal alternative.

To this end, it's important to be prepared in the event that there are no winds to propel your sailboat. Knowing what to do in such a situation can be the difference between life and death. And even if you've decided to sail with the water currents, use propellers (if they're already fitted on your boat), or have to row your boat, just don't take your sails down. It won't be long before the wind comes so you should give up just yet.

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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A Beginner's Guide to Sailing a Sailboat

Key Information for Beginners and Sailors

There are many ways to learn to sail:

You can just jump in a boat with a friend and try to learn from experience
You can sign up for a formal course at a sailing school
You can buy or borrow a small sailboat and do it all on your own

No matter which way works best for you, it helps to understand the boat and what's involved in sailing first before you're out on the water, where suddenly you might get into trouble.

The Basic Steps of Sailing

Sailing involves both specific knowledge and skills. The following are the basic steps of learning to sail- as much as you can learn while not actually on a boat. You don't have to follow this order; skip ahead if you already know some of the basics. If you're mostly new to sailing, you might want to proceed through these steps like chapters in a manual.

Understand Basic Sailing Terms. To get into sailing, you have to understand the words that are used to talk about the sailboat and the skills used to sail. Start here with a review of basic sailing terms. Don't worry about memorizing everything as many of these terms and concepts will become clearer as you read on about how to do it.
Learn the Parts of the Boat. Before you go on the boat, it's helpful to know the words used in different parts of the boat. Even if you have an instructor, he or she won't say "Grab that rope over there and pull it," but instead will say "Haul in the jib sheet!" Review the basic boat terms you'll need to know.
Start an Online Course. Now you're ready to learn more about what all those parts of the boat are used for. Here you can start an online learn-to-sail course by learning more about the parts of the boat along with a lot of photos, so you'll see what to do.
Rig the Boat. Read to go sailing now? Hold it a minute- you have to rig the boat first by putting on sails and making other preparations. Here again are a lot of photos of what to do on a typical small sailboat used by beginners.
Review Basic Sailing Techniques. OK, now you have the boat ready- so what do you do now to make it go? Manage the sails to go in the direction you want by learning basic sailing techniques.
Discover How to Maneuver. Sailing in a set direction is reasonably easy, but eventually, you'll have to change direction. That often involves tacking and gybing. Take a moment to learn what's involved in these critical maneuvers.
Recover From a Capsize. Now you've got the basics down. But did anyone ever tell you that small sailboats often tip over if the wind is gusting? Be prepared and carefully see how to recover from a capsize .
Dock or Anchor the Boat. Now you're out there sailing and you've got the boat under control. Learn how to go faster, dock or anchor the boat and use some of the equipment you've ignored so far. Take a look at some of these additional sailing skills.
Practice Tying Knots. For thousands of years, sailors have used times where it is cold or raining by doing things like tying knots. Knots are important on a sailboat and you will need to learn at least some basic sailing knots to sail at all.
Sail Safely. At this point, plus practice on the water, you're good to go. However, it's good to remember that water is a dangerous place. Learn the basics about sailing safety. Staying safe makes it easier to keep having fun out there.

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Sail GP: how do supercharged racing yachts go so fast? An engineer explains

Head of Engineering, Warsash School of Maritime Science and Engineering, Solent University

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Sailing used to be considered as a rather sedate pastime. But in the past few years, the world of yacht racing has been revolutionised by the arrival of hydrofoil-supported catamarans, known as “foilers”. These vessels, more akin to high-performance aircraft than yachts, combine the laws of aerodynamics and hydrodynamics to create vessels capable of speeds of up to 50 knots, which is far faster than the wind propelling them.

An F50 catamaran preparing for the Sail GP series recently even broke this barrier, reaching an incredible speed of 50.22 knots (57.8mph) purely powered by the wind. This was achieved in a wind of just 19.3 knots (22.2mph). F50s are 15-metre-long, 8.8-metre-wide hydrofoil catamarans propelled by rigid sails and capable of such astounding speeds that Sail GP has been called the “ Formula One of sailing ”. How are these yachts able to go so fast? The answer lies in some simple fluid dynamics.

As a vessel’s hull moves through the water, there are two primary physical mechanisms that create drag and slow the vessel down. To build a faster boat you have to find ways to overcome the drag force.

The first mechanism is friction. As the water flows past the hull, a microscopic layer of water is effectively attached to the hull and is pulled along with the yacht. A second layer of water then attaches to the first layer, and the sliding or shearing between them creates friction.

On the outside of this is a third layer, which slides over the inner layers creating more friction, and so on. Together, these layers are known as the boundary layer – and it’s the shearing of the boundary layer’s molecules against each other that creates frictional drag.

A yacht also makes waves as it pushes the water around and under the hull from the bow (front) to the stern (back) of the boat. The waves form two distinctive patterns around the yacht (one at each end), known as Kelvin Wave patterns.

These waves, which move at the same speed as the yacht, are very energetic. This creates drag on the boat known as the wave-making drag, which is responsible for around 90% of the total drag. As the yacht accelerates to faster speeds (close to the “hull speed”, explained later), these waves get higher and longer.

These two effects combine to produce a phenomenon known as “ hull speed ”, which is the fastest the boat can travel – and in conventional single-hull yachts it is very slow. A single-hull yacht of the same size as the F50 has a hull speed of around 12 mph.

However, it’s possible to reduce both the frictional and wave-making drag and overcome this hull-speed limit by building a yacht with hydrofoils . Hydrofoils are small, underwater wings. These act in the same way as an aircraft wing, creating a lift force which acts against gravity, lifting our yacht upwards so that the hull is clear of the water.

While an aircraft’s wings are very large, the high density of water compared to air means that we only need very small hydrofoils to produce a lot of the important lift force. A hydrofoil just the size of three A3 sheets of paper, when moving at just 10 mph, can produce enough lift to pick up a large person.

This significantly reduces the surface area and the volume of the boat that is underwater, which cuts the frictional drag and the wave-making drag, respectively. The combined effect is a reduction in the overall drag to a fraction of its original amount, so that the yacht is capable of sailing much faster than it could without hydrofoils.

The other innovation that helps boost the speed of racing yachts is the use of rigid sails . The power available from traditional sails to drive the boat forward is relatively small, limited by the fact that the sail’s forces have to act in equilibrium with a range of other forces, and that fabric sails do not make an ideal shape for creating power. Rigid sails, which are very similar in design to an aircraft wing, form a much more efficient shape than traditional sails, effectively giving the yacht a larger engine and more power.

As the yacht accelerates from the driving force of these sails, it experiences what is known as “ apparent wind ”. Imagine a completely calm day, with no wind. As you walk, you experience a breeze in your face at the same speed that you are walking. If there was a wind blowing too, you would feel a mixture of the real (or “true” wind) and the breeze you have generated.

The two together form the apparent wind, which can be faster than the true wind. If there is enough true wind combined with this apparent wind, then significant force and power can be generated from the sail to propel the yacht, so it can easily sail faster than the wind speed itself.

The combined effect of reducing the drag and increasing the driving power results in a yacht that is far faster than those of even a few years ago. But all of this would not be possible without one further advance: materials. In order to be able to “fly”, the yacht must have a low mass, and the hydrofoil itself must be very strong. To achieve the required mass, strength and rigidity using traditional boat-building materials such as wood or aluminium would be very difficult.

This is where modern advanced composite materials such as carbon fibre come in. Production techniques optimising weight, rigidity and strength allow the production of structures that are strong and light enough to produce incredible yachts like the F50.

The engineers who design these high-performance boats (known as naval architects ) are always looking to use new materials and science to get an optimum design. In theory, the F50 should be able to go even faster.

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What Are The 4 Basic Types Of Boat Engines & How Do They Work?

B oating is a popular recreational activity, and it could also be used as a form of transportation for moving between coastal and river areas. Since we often don't see a boat's method of propulsion and its engine, we wouldn't usually think about how these watercraft move about on the surface.

Unlike cars, which have their engines placed at the front or rear of the cabin, boats have four basic types of engines. These four types have different placement methods and have their own advantages. The size of the boat and its intended use will affect the options you have, that's why you'll notice some boats usually come with a particular engine type.

So, let's explore four types of boat engines, examine their differences, and discover how they work. Of course, there will be other rarer types out there, but we will only stick with the most common boat engines for today.

Read more: The 10 Most Legendary Ships Of WW2 Ranked From Worst To Best

Outboard Engine

Outboard engines are highly suitable for smaller watercraft, which makes them one of the most used engines out there because of the prevalence of these small boats for pleasure and recreation. They're also called outboard engines because they're mounted outside the boat, usually on the transom, the beam that strengthens the stern structure of most boats. These engines typically come as a single complete power unit — from the engine and transmission to the shaft and propeller. Because of this, the smaller outboard engines are easier to work on, as you can remove the entire assembly if you need to service it or fix something. Nevertheless, you can also find outboard engines with large V8s, like the Honda BF350 .

Another reason that the outboard engine is pretty popular is its ease of use. Boats with this engine type don't need to have a rudder, as the entire engine assembly moves around to steer it. For smaller boats, you can do so by using a hand tiller, while some larger ones use a steering wheel that's connected to the engine.

You can find outboard engines with varying fuel or energy sources. They're usually powered by gasoline or diesel engines, but you can also find variants powered by a gasoline-and-oil mixture, as well as battery-powered motors primarily used for trolling and electric boats . Yamaha is one of the more popular makers of these engines, so you can check out these things if you want to know more about the Yamaha Marine Engine .

Inboard Engine

The inboard engine is what you would typically think of in ships and larger boats — it is composed of an engine placed near the middle of the boat for balance and trim, with a transmission connected directly to it. A shaft then goes from this system through the hull of the boat, with the propellers sitting at its very end. The propellers are near the stern of the boat to provide power, but since everything in the inboard engine is fixed in place, you would need a rudder to deflect the flow from the propellers and steer the watercraft.

You can often find this engine type on boats that are 26 feet or longer, especially as these are heavier and would need larger engines. Aside from that, inboard engines usually use modified four-stroke automotive engines, which can deliver more horsepower and torque when needed. One more advantage of the inboard engine is the predictability of the wake that it produces, making it a great option for water sport enthusiasts. Since the propeller is fixed under the boat, changing the directions (using the rudder) won't have as great of an effect compared to outboard engines and stern drive boats.

Stern Drive Boats

This engine type is divided into two parts — the engine is similar to the inboard engine in that it uses modified four-stroke automobile engines placed inside the boat. However, its drive unit is more like that of the outboard engine, with the complete propeller assembly turning for steering. Since stern drive boats use the same engine as inboard engines, they usually have higher horsepower and torque than you can find on the latter. Another advantage of the stern drive boat is that since its engine is fixed in place, you can easily service it in place inside the boat.

But, at the same time, it's also more agile and maneuverable because of how the drive unit moves to steer the boat. This makes it useful for boats that typically move around in tight waterways. This makes the stern drive a common engine type for larger pleasure boats, which makes them easier to pilot. The stern drive boat offers the best of both inboard and outboard engines. It can use larger, more powerful engines than outboard motors, and with the engine placed at the stern, you'll have more open space near the center of the boat. You can also adjust the pitch of the drive unit to help trim the boat while you're underway.

Jet Drive Boats

Just as its name suggests, a jet drive boat is similar to a jet engine in that its propeller is inside a pod or container. Instead of having a propeller outside the boat, which is a potential danger to people and wildlife in the water, a jet drive boat has its engine inside the hull which then powers an impeller that sucks water through an intake nozzle. It then discharges the high pressure from the back of the boat through one or more nozzles that propel the boat at high speed.

The nozzle swivels around to steer the boat, thus removing the need for a rudder. However, when the boat or personal watercraft isn't being propelled forward at high speed, you'd have less steering control of the boat, making it difficult to navigate in tight spaces. Furthermore, if the intake gets choked by seaweed or other contaminants, it might be a bit difficult to clear. Jet drive is often used by personal watercraft, like jet skis. However, it can also be used by larger boats that are designed to work in shallow water. Furthermore, you can also get outboard motors that use jet drive to propel your watercraft.

Which Boat Engine Should You Get?

While you might be tempted to get a jet drive engine with the highest possible output rating to get the best speed that you can, you shouldn't do that. Instead, the biggest thing that you should consider is the size of your boat. All hull types have a speed rating, so you shouldn't get an engine that's way too powerful for the hull that you have.

But you shouldn't get the smallest possible engine as well, as an underpowered motor will make it harder for you to get underway. This will mean that the engine will have to work harder to move your boat, thus it will burn more fuel. So, you should get the recommended engine power and type that your hull manufacturer suggests.

Aside from that, you should also consider the number of people and cargo you typically carry. If you usually bring all your friends and family on your large yacht, then consider going for the higher horsepower rating for your boat. But if you prefer boating alone or with just your partner, then the engine with the lower rating should be more than enough.

Read the original article on SlashGear .

Coffee House

Starmer’s plan to ‘smash the gangs’ won’t work

12 August 2024, 2:54pm

Patrick O’Flynn

We are approaching the fifth anniversary of British prime ministers promising to stem the tide of illegal migration across the English Channel. It was in late August 2019 that Boris Johnson did a piece to camera in which he warned potential new waves of illegal immigrants: ‘We will send you back.’ In the event, hardly anyone got sent back anywhere.

Next up was Rishi Sunak, who hyped up the Rwanda removals plan that he had sought to block on value for money grounds when Johnson first proposed it. Sunak promised nothing less than to ‘stop the boats’ via the creation of the Rwanda deterrent. The boats were not stopped. In fact, Sunak left office with cross-Channel arrivals having hit a new record rate. And nobody at all was removed to Rwanda against their will.

There is no sign of any gangs being smashed

These days Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper have a new chosen soundbite: ‘Smash the gangs.’ Needless to say, there is no sign of any gangs being smashed and Channel migrant arrivals have further escalated since Labour took power. On Sunday alone, some 703 made it to the English coast, while two people drowned inside French waters as they were heading our way.

The idea behind ‘smash the gangs’ is that people paying several thousand pounds for a berth in a dinghy are not themselves ruthless gatecrashers into Britain, but mere victims of trafficking with no agency or culpability of their own. As Starmer wrote in the Sun last month: ‘Every week vulnerable people are overloaded onto boats on the coast of France. Infants, children, pregnant mothers – the smugglers do not care. They’re making a fortune, breaching our borders.’

Most popular

Julie burchill, reginald d. hunter and the cowardice of the comedy class.

In fact, more than 80 per cent of the people getting escorted into Dover from the mid-way point in the Channel are men. But Starmer is right about the fortune being made by the people-moving syndicates. So right in fact as to render his approach conceptually useless: if and when any gangs do get smashed, the supply of places in boats will become constrained, the price of places in boats will rise and new gangs will stampede to exploit the gap in the market and the even higher profit margins available.

And yet, gangs making perhaps £3,000 on every transported migrant are not the biggest financial gainers in this ugly and illicit trade. The migrants themselves are. More than three-quarters of them can expect to be given some sort of leave to remain in the UK, while many are from countries to which we simply can’t remove them anyway.

From the word go they have accommodation, meals, healthcare, dentistry and pocket money provided for free, while there is also still plenty of cash-in-hand work to be had in our informal economy. Once they have established a right to stay in Britain then the British welfare state becomes wide open.

Social housing, education for children able to join them, full access to the NHS, out-of-work benefits, you name it. In effect, it is open sesame to a British ‘social wage’, worth perhaps £20,000 a year – a million-pound lifetime prize for those coming in young. Even accounting for the future tax contributions of those who do go on to gain legitimate employment, this still leaves a big six figure lifetime bill. Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick quoted an estimate of £400,000 per person yesterday. In comparison, the upfront investment of a couple of thousand quid to a people-moving gang seems like the bargain of the century.

The British public knows all this. The social contract that sees people pay into a common pot to earn the right to a safety net when tough times hit has been smashed by the rapidly escalating scale of foreign national free-riding that is being permitted.

Johnson didn’t send the migrants back, Sunak didn’t stop the boats and Starmer, who has already promised he will never take Britain out of the ECHR, will not be able to smash the gangs. In any event, any networks his new Border Security Command does break up in a blaze of gold braid and epaulettes will be replaced by new ones very swiftly.

That voters should be asked to place their trust in charade after charade is monstrous, infuriating and – after 132,000 nautical gatecrashers since 2018 so far and no sign of any abatement – very, very boring.

In defence of Douglas Murray

Also in Politics

Do we now have proof Ukraine blew up the Nord Stream pipelines?

Also by Patrick O’Flynn

Migration figures are falling – but the crisis is far from over

The controversial truth about China’s new gas field

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Stream It Or Skip It: ‘Matt Rife: Lucid’ On Netflix, A Crowd Work Special Where The Crowd Provides The Biggest Laughs

Where to stream:.

Matt Rife: Lucid - A Crowd Work Special
Stand-Up Comedy

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Matt Rife shot to fame over the past couple of years thanks to going viral on TikTok and Instagram for his clips talking to the crowd during his stand-up sets. So it makes sense that after scoring a hit last year with his Netflix debut, that the streaming giant would want to double down and give Rife’s fans what they want. A full hour of crowd work. Are you not entertained?!?

MATT RIFE: LUCID – A CROWD WORK SPECIAL : STREAM IT OR SKIP IT?

The Gist: Matt Rife says he began his professional stand-up comedy career as a 16-year-old at The Comedy Zone in Charlotte, “so this place holds a very close, special place for me.” Special enough that he wanted to come home to get to know the people he was entertaining all these years.

The hour does have a running theme: Dreams. Rife says his dreams have come true, but he wanted to hear from the audience, giving them different prompts to find out about their own dream jobs, their weirdest recurring dreams/nightmares, and their horniest wet dreams.

What Comedy Specials Will It Remind You Of?: Plenty of comedians have tried before and since Rife to gain traction on YouTube (or Comedy Central in the before times, as Big Jay Oakerson did as far back as 2016) with crowd-work specials, but the closest reference for current Netflix subscribers is most likely Jeff Ross, who has devoted segments of his specials (solo or with Dave Attell) to roast audience members .

Memorable Jokes: Rife opens the hour with some traditional crowd, picking out a guy in the front row wearing a black cowboy hat and impossibly long-toed boots, getting one of the boots and holding it up to show the crowd as a prop for more jokes.

In the early going, Rife confesses that he wanted to be a fighter pilot after seeing Top Gun as a kid, but that his poor eyesight dashed his dreams by the time he hit the ninth grade. Which leads to his big transgressive moment: A 9/11 reference. How would his lack of vision impact his flying skills? “I would’ve missed both those towers,” Rife cracks.

When he does turn it over to his audience, they leap at the chance for the spotlight. The first to chirp in is a woman, attending the show with her mother, who run a business that teaches women how to give better blowjobs. Next to offer up their dream job? A woman who says she’s a special needs teacher for kids in grades K-5. Rife asks if she has a favorite student. “Yeah, my daughter.” Spoiler alert: Her daughter is an adult who has also worked in schools.

When another woman volunteers that she’s a commercial airline pilot, we see/hear the following exchange:

Rife: “What airline?” Audience member: “I”m not saying.” Rife: “That’s the Spirit!”

The comedian does have some sincere follow-up questions, but when he wonders what the quickest route is to an airline gig, a woman from the crowd shouts “blowjob!” The room erupts, and Rife, smiling, clarifies:“I didn’t say that.”

Our Take: And therein lies the rub.

In his big Netflix special from 2023 ( Natural Selection ) , and also in this hour, Rife wants the viewers to know that he’s more than just crowd-work clips.“It’s a very small part, online, compared to what we actually tour around the country with,” he says.

And yet, as he also warns them in the room: “I want you to be aware, you are as equally at fault for how this goes, as am I, OK?”

Crowd work clips have encouraged more heckling and more aggressive heckles in live stand-up shows. Little wonder that Rife’s audience jumps at any chance to be part of the show. That guy in the ridiculous boots might not have asked to be in the front row, but you could bet good money that the producers seating Rife’s crowd made sure to sit him where Rife could see him right away. Toward the end of the hour, one woman really attempts to hijack the whole hour with a wandering tale about her daddy issues, and then standing up out of her chair to being scanning the crowd. Rife implores her to sit back down, calling her Joaquin Phoenix from The Joker .

To make his own case, as he had in last year’s special, Rife wants us all to know that it’s not as easy as it looks.“Here’s the thing about this moment right now,” he says. “Next time you see some haters in my comments going ‘All he does is crowd work. It’s so easy.’ Is it?”

Our Call: SKIP IT. There’s a time and a place for crowd-work during a live stand-up comedy show. But time and again in this hour, Rife’s crowd prompts the loudest laughs. Not sure this makes the case for Rife as a top stand-up, but it’ll probably provoke more people to want to buy tickets to his shows so they can be in on the jokes, too.

Sean L. McCarthy works the comedy beat. He also podcasts half-hour episodes with comedians revealing origin stories: The Comic’s Comic Presents Last Things First .

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National News | Project 2025 co-author recorded assuring…

National News

Puzzles & Games

National News | Project 2025 co-author recorded assuring Trump’s support of his work

Russell Vought speaks during a press briefing at the White House, March 11, 2019, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)

Russell Vought, who helped write the nearly 1,000-page project handbook that would overhaul the federal government along conservative lines, told British journalists posing as conservative donors that Trump fully approves of the operation and has in fact helped raise money.

Trump has disavowed any knowledge of such plans and said he does not even know the people involved, though Vought is said to be in line to serve as chief of staff if 45 is reelected and was the policy director for the Republican National Convention committee that penned the party’s official platform. Vought also led the Office of Management and Budget during the Trump administration. At least 140 people who used to work for Trump are involved in the ultraconservative initiative.

“He’s been at our organization, he’s raised money for our organization,” Vought unwittingly told journalists from the British nonprofit Centre for Climate Reporting as he met with the purported donors in a hotel room that had been secretly tricked out with cameras and mics. “I remember walking into our last day in office and told him what I was going to do. So he’s very supportive of what we do.”

Vought went on to describe how they were preparing to hit the ground running in the event that Trump wins in November, even as he called Project 2025 “the left’s bogeyman.” His own nonprofit group, the Center for Renewing America, is hard at work.

“We’ve got about 350 different documents that are regulations and things of that nature that are, we’re planning for the next administration,” he said.

That ranges from dismantling federal agencies, which Vought dismissed as mere “bureaucracies,” to implementing “the largest deportation” in U.S. history, something Project 2025 has been very open about. Vought also works closely with the Heritage Foundation, the conservative think tank that is masterminding the plan.

Trump’s assertions that he doesn’t know anyone in Vought’s organization and has nothing to do with its operations were “just very, very conscious distancing himself from a brand,” Vought said. “It’s interesting, he’s in fact not even opposing himself to a particular policy.”

The journalists misrepresented themselves as potential donors to gain access. Such deception tactics violate American journalism ethics, but the Centre for Climate Reporting said the practice is allowable in the U.K. press if it serves the public interest.

“We broadly follow the U.K.’s press regulator guidelines on this, which say that it is justified if it is in the public interest and not obtainable via other means,” Centre co-founder and director Lawrence Carter told CNN. “We therefore weigh the subject’s reasonable expectation of privacy with the public interest.”

The recordings came out just days after U.S. nonprofit ProPublica obtained secret training videos apparently aimed at those wishing to serve in the new administration .

With News Wire Services

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Assessing claims about Tim Walz’s military service

Republicans are attacking the Democratic vice-presidential nominee on his retirement timing and with allegations of “stolen valor.”

When Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday introduced her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, she lauded his lengthy service in the National Guard: “He is a veteran who served our nation in uniform for more than two decades as a member of the Army National Guard.” Walz played up his service, too: “For 24 years, I proudly wore the uniform of this nation. The National Guard gave me purpose.”

Since that moment, Walz’s record has been under attack by Republicans, with claims that he abandoned his troops on the eve of a deployment to Iraq and that, in an instance of “stolen valor,” inflated his credentials and wartime experience.

Here’s an assessment of those claims.

Abandonment of his troops

“When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, you know what he did? He dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him.”

— GOP vice-presidential candidate JD Vance, Wednesday

The Washington Post reported that at least three former Guard colleagues have publicly voiced bitterness at Walz’s decision to leave their unit shortly before a possible deployment to Iraq — a deployment that, because it was extended, lasted 19 months. The record shows that Walz made his decision to retire after the National Guard announced the unit might be deployed to Iraq. Walz initially issued a news release indicating he would deploy with his unit.

We constructed the following timeline from interviews, National Guard records and news reports.

April 8, 1981 — Two days after he turns 17, Walz joins the Nebraska National Guard.

1996 — Walz transfers to Minnesota National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery.

September 2001 — Though Walz qualified for retirement at 20 years of service, he said in an interview for a Library of Congress oral history project that the Sept. 11 attacks persuaded him to reenlist.

Aug. 3, 2003 — Walz’s unit deploys for nine months of active duty, based in Vicenza, Italy, to support Operation Enduring Freedom, the war in Afghanistan. The troops provided security for Air Force bases in Turkey, Italy, Belgium and Britain, with some elements deployed to support stability operations in Bosnia and Kosovo, a unit history says . In the Library of Congress interview, Walz said the experience made him more politically aware.

April 2004 — Walz returns to Minnesota.

Feb. 5, 2005 — Walz, describing himself in a news release as “Mankato West High School teacher and Command Sergeant Major in the National Guard,” files paperwork saying he is exploring running for Congress.

March 17 — The National Guard announces possible partial mobilization of 2,000 troops. “The announcement from the National Guard PAO [Public Affairs Office] specified that all or a portion of Walz’s battalion could be mobilized to serve in Iraq within the next two years,” according to a March 20 news release issued by the Walz campaign. “Walz Still Planning to Run for Congress Despite Possible Call to Duty in Iraq,” the headline said.

In the news release, Walz said he “had no plans to drop out of the race.” He also said: “As Command Sergeant Major I have a responsibility not only to ready my battalion for Iraq, but also to serve if called on. I am dedicated to serving my country to the best of my ability, whether that is in Washington DC or in Iraq.”

March 21 — KEYC, a radio station in North Mankato, Minn., broadcasts a report that highlighted Walz’s “unique position” in light of the National Guard announcement. “He will continue his campaign for the congressional seat, despite his possible deployment to Iraq,” the newscast said. “Walz also says if called to active duty in Iraq, his family will continue his campaign back home in Mankato.”

May 16 — The Harris campaign did not respond to a request to provide the day when Walz submitted his retirement papers, but records show this is Walz’s last day with the National Guard. He is 41. His daughter, Hope, is 4. In the Library of Congress interview, Walz said he left the Guard in April “to run for this office.” He said that “we were concerned we would try to do both” and “I decided to retire to focus full time on running.”

Maj. Gen. Randy Manner , U.S. National Guard (ret.), who oversaw overseas deployments, told The Fact Checker that it usually takes at least 90 days to process retirement requests so “60 days would be extraordinarily fast.” Manner said that the Minnesota adjutant general has the final say and could have blocked Walz’s retirement if he thought it would have had a negative impact on the possible deployment.

A former top official in the Minnesota National Guard at the time, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to avoid being entangled in politics, told The Fact Checker that there was no consideration of blocking Walz’s retirement.

July 14 — Walz’s unit officially receives orders to deploy.

Oct. 14 — Unit is mobilized.

March 2006 — Unit deploys.

November 2006 — Walz elected to Congress.

October 2007 — Unit returns after deployment was extended.

Assessment: Walz knew that he might soon be deployed to Iraq. However, he had served nearly a quarter-century in the Guard and had already announced he was considering a congressional race. He has said he could not do both, and so chose to run for Congress. Whether he abandoned his troops is a matter of perspective, but it is noteworthy that his retirement request was not blocked.

In a statement, the Harris campaign said: “After 24 years of military service, Governor Walz retired in 2005 and ran for Congress, where he was a tireless advocate for our men and women in uniform — and as Vice President of the United States he will continue to be a relentless champion for our veterans and military families.” The campaign did not respond directly to a question about the timing of his resignation and why he left.

Stolen valor claims

Republicans have cited three examples of “stolen valor” — broadly intended to mean Walz is claiming credit for something he did not achieve in the military. The Stolen Valor Act of 2013 makes it a crime to claim to be a recipient of various military medals or badges — and Walz is not accused of that.

‘Command Sergeant Major’

“Walz referred to himself as a retired command sergeant major in his run for Congress and governor. This is a lie and stolen valor.”

— Ashley Hayek, chief engagement officer, America First Policy Institute, Wednesday

Walz’s biography on his website says: “After 24 years in the Army National Guard, Command Sergeant Major Walz retired from the 1-125th Field Artillery Battalion in 2005.” At various times, such as in a 2006 C-SPAN interview , he described himself as a command sergeant major. Republicans say that is misleading because he is receiving retirement benefits for the rank one level below — master sergeant. That’s because he still needed additional training at the time he retired.

“He held multiple positions within field artillery such as firing battery chief, operations sergeant, first sergeant, and culminated his career serving as the command sergeant major for the battalion,” said Army Lt. Col. Kristen Augé, Minnesota National Guard’s state public affairs officer. “He retired as a master sergeant in 2005 for benefit purposes because he did not complete additional coursework at the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy.”

The Harris-Walz campaign on its website initially called Walz a “retired Command Sergeant Major” but then updated his biography to say he “served as a command sergeant major.”

Assessment: This is on the line. He did achieve the title he has claimed, for a total of seven months, but it would be more accurate to say he “served as command sergeant major” rather than claim the title outright.

Operation Enduring Freedom

“Tim Walz Falsely Claimed He Served in Afghanistan.”

— Washington Free Beacon headline, Wednesday

Walz’s deployment overseas was in support of the war in Afghanistan, dubbed Operation Enduring Freedom, Augé said, saying “the battalion supported security missions at various locations in Europe and Turkey.”

Generally, Walz makes that clear. “I deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom,” he said in a 2007 C-SPAN interview. “My battalion provided base security throughout the European Theater from Turkey to England in the early stages of the war in Afghanistan.”

But Republicans have pointed to a 2006 news release by his congressional campaign, which called him “a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom” and also a 2004 photo in which he is holding a sign saying “Enduring Freedom — Veterans for Kerry.”

Augé said Walz earned a Global War on Terrorism medal but the records are unclear on whether it was a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal or a Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal . A Harris-Walz campaign aide said it was the service medal, which is for individuals who either directly or indirectly supported these designated operations: Airport security, Operation Noble Eagle, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Assessment: This is also on the line. We can find no evidence Walz ever claimed he served in Afghanistan. He served overseas in support of the Afghanistan war, but sometimes his phrasing might mislead people into thinking he was an Afghanistan veteran.

Carrying weapons

“Well, I wonder. Tim Walz, when were you ever in war?”

— Vance, Wednesday

The Harris campaign circulated a 2018 clip of Walz arguing in support of gun restrictions. “We can make sure that those weapons of war that I carried in war is the only place where those weapons are at,” he said.

There is no evidence that Walz served in combat — and he has not claimed he did. He did receive ribbons for proficiency in sharpshooting and hand grenades, according to military records obtained through an open records request by MPR News .

“In his 24 years of service, the governor carried, fired and trained others to use weapons of war innumerable times,” a Harris-Walz campaign aide said. “Governor Walz would never insult or undermine any American’s service to this country — in fact, he thanks Senator Vance for putting his life on the line for our country. It’s the American way.” The aide did not address his use of the phrase “in war.”

On Friday, after this fact check first appeared online, campaign spokesman Ammar Moussa told The Post that “the governor misspoke” in his remarks. “He did handle weapons of war and believes strongly that only military members trained to carry those deadly weapons should have access to them.”

Assessment: Walz’s language was sloppy and false. He did carry weapons of war — just not in war.

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IMAGES

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What Physics Are Involved In The Working Of Sailboats? » ScienceABC
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How Do Sails Actually Work: Full Beginners Guide
How a Sailboat Works

COMMENTS

How Does Sailing Work? The Physics of Sailing
Learn how sailboats use the wind, water, and their structure to move forward and change course. Explore the concepts of lift, drag, apparent wind, points of sail, keel, centerboard, tacking, jibing, and sail shape.
How Do Sailboats Work? (The Complete Guide)
Learn the science behind sailboats, from the parts they use to the angle of the sails. Discover the benefits of sailing and the safety tips for sailors.
How Sails Work: Understanding the Basics
Tacking and jibing (gybing) A boat changes direction by either tacking or jibing. Sailing upwind, a boat tacks when the bow passes through the eye of the wind until the boat is sailing on the opposite side or "tack" creating a zig-zag course. When sailing downwind, the boat jibes when passing the stern through the wind.
Know how: Sailing 101
Learn how a sailboat works by understanding the forces of wind and water, the parts of a sailboat, and the points of sail. Find out how to adjust your sails, steer, and sail safely in different wind conditions.
How a Sail Works: Basic Aerodynamics
Learn how a sailboat uses wind energy and aerodynamic forces to move forward and stay stable. Discover the roles of lift, drag, thrust, weight, and keel in sailing.
How Do Sails Actually Work: Full Beginners Guide
Draw your 20-unit north wind line in the rider's face. From the end of the first line, draw a 10-unit east wind. With a straightedge, draw a line from the beginning of the north wind vector to the arrow on the east wind vector.
How Does A Sailboat Actually Work?
How lift actually works: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFO4PBolwFgMore with Canadian Olympian Hunter Lowden: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YVOPUkbu6gHow d...
How Do Sailboats Work: A Comprehensive Guide
Short answer: How do sailboats work: Sailboats work by harnessing the power of the wind to propel them through water. The sails catch the wind and generate lift, propelling the boat forward. By adjusting the sails and rudder, sailors can control the direction and speed of the boat. 1) Understanding the Basics: How Do Sailboats.
How Sails Really Work
When properly trimmed (adjusted or positioned), the sail's leading edge—the luff—points into the wind, creating higher pressure on the windward side (the side facing the wind) and lower pressure on the leeward side (the side away from the wind)." The sail "lifts," or moves, toward the lower-pressure side causing the boat to move.
Wait, How Do Sailboats Work?
That's how sailboats work. Two forces — the resistance of the water on the bottom of the boat and the wind blowing in the sails — come together to form a third force: the direction of the boat. The wind and water are the two sides of your hand coming together to squeeze the egg. If you can squeeze an egg you can sail a boat.
How Sails Work or How Sailboats Sail into the Wind
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Learn how sails create low and high pressure zones that suck the boat forward and how the boat's shape and keel help it move straight and stay upright. See how sails are similar to airplane wings and how they differ in their effects.
Learn How to Sail, Sailing 101
That angle is sometimes called the "wind's eye.". Trim the jib—using the winch to bring the sail in, not let it out—to the side opposite the one where you want to sail. If you want to head off to the port side, you "back the jib," or trim it to the "wrong" side. As the backed jib pulls the bow off, cast off the mooring.
The physics of sailing
Sailing downwind (parallel to the wind, like the boat at left) is easy to understand: the wind blows into the sails and pushes against them. The wind is faster than the boat so the air is decelerated by the sails. The sails push backwards against the wind, so the wind pushes forward on the sails. But for a boat with normal sails, the catch is that, downwind, you can only ever sail more slowly ...
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Windward sailing also does not work if a boat is pointed directly opposite the wind direction, according to The Physics of Sailing. Wind has to be moving against the boat at an angle of at least ...
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In small sailboats there are usually two people per boat, the skipper and the crew. The skipper must control the main sail and steer. The crew is in charge of managing the smaller sail, the jib. The jib is a triangular sail fixed to the bow that improves the aerodynamics of the sails. The more sail area, the faster you will go.
How Does A Sail Work?
In essence, sailing is all about understanding how a sail works. A sail works by creating both a low-pressure zone and high-pressure zone depending on whether the boat is moving upwind or downwind. The idea is similar to an airplane wing, which is arched in a similar way to a sail. In essence, sails are essentially wings that capture the wind ...
How Does a Boat Sail Upwind?
This is called "tacking.". Modern sailboats can sail up to about a 45-degree angle from the wind. For example, if the wind is blowing from the north, a boat can sail from about northeast on port tack ("tack" also describes which side of the boat the wind is blowing from: "port tack" means the wind is coming over the port, or left ...
How Sailboats Work
The common sailboat comprises eight essential parts: hull, tiller, rudder, mainsail, mast, boom, jib and keel. The hull is the shell of the boat, which contains all the internal components. Its symmetrical shape balances the sailboat and reduces drag, or the backward pull caused by friction, as it moves in the water.Inside of the hull in the stern, or back of the boat, is the tiller, which is ...
How Do Sailboats Work?
Learn the physics of sails and wind, and how they work together to move your boat. Find out how to trim your sails, turn, and tack at different points of sail.
How Do Sailboats Work Without Wind?
Without having the winds in your sails, the boat will not move forward. Instead, you'll only drift along and get stuck in the neutral. Worst still, you can easily capsize. As such, it's of great importance to have a good grasp of how the wind works in propelling a sailboat and what you can do without it. When there are forces of the wind on the ...
10 Steps to Sail a Sailboat for Beginners
Take a look at some of these additional sailing skills. Practice Tying Knots. For thousands of years, sailors have used times where it is cold or raining by doing things like tying knots. Knots are important on a sailboat and you will need to learn at least some basic sailing knots to sail at all. Sail Safely.
Sail GP: how do supercharged racing yachts go so fast? An engineer explains
F50 catamarans can travel at up to 50 knots. John G. Mabanglo/EPA. A yacht also makes waves as it pushes the water around and under the hull from the bow (front) to the stern (back) of the boat.
What Are The 4 Basic Types Of Boat Engines & How Do They Work?
For smaller boats, you can do so by using a hand tiller, while some larger ones use a steering wheel that's connected to the engine. You can find outboard engines with varying fuel or energy sources.
Nēv Schulman
260K likes, 14K comments - nevschulman on August 10, 2024: "I went fishing with my family on Sunday. It was incredible, my son's idea. One of those days that just work. We found an available boat (thank you captain ben!) and caught all kinds of fish, most of which we threw back because they were too cute. Especially the puffer. It was magical. A day full of love and wonder in the way only ...
Starmer's plan to 'smash the gangs' won't work
Sunak promised nothing less than to 'stop the boats' via the creation of the Rwanda deterrent. The boats were not stopped. In fact, Sunak left office with cross-Channel arrivals having hit a ...
'Matt Rife: Lucid' Netflix Review: Stream It Or Skip It?
Our Call: SKIP IT. There's a time and a place for crowd-work during a live stand-up comedy show. But time and again in this hour, Rife's crowd prompts the loudest laughs.
Project 2025 author recorded asserting Trump's support of work
Trump has disavowed any knowledge of such plans and said he does not even know the people involved, though Vought is said to be in line to serve as chief of staff if 45 is reelected and was the ...
Assessing claims about Tim Walz's military service
Aug. 3, 2003 — Walz's unit deploys for nine months of active duty, based in Vicenza, Italy, to support Operation Enduring Freedom, the war in Afghanistan.The troops provided security for Air ...

Better Sailing

How Does Sailing Work? The Physics of Sailing

The Role of the Wind: Lift and Drag

The Concept of Apparent Wind

Points of Sail: Navigating the Wind Angles

Balancing Forces: The Keel and Centerboard

Tacking and Jibing: Changing Course with the Wind

Sail Shape and Rigging: Aerodynamics of Sailing

How Does Sailing Work? The Physics of Sailing – In Conclusion

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How Do Sailboats Work: A Comprehensive Guide

Short answer: How do sailboats work:

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3) Sailing 101: How Do Sailboats Work? Your FAQs Answered

4) Mechanisms Unveiled: Exploring the Inner Workings of Sailboats

5) From Wind to Waves: The Fascinating Science Behind How Sailboats Work

6) Decoding the Mystery: A Comprehensive Breakdown of How Sailboats Function

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