THE SCIENCE OF
CHRISTMAS
The Unique
Characteristics of Reindeer
Why did
Santa choose Rudolph to lead the reindeer? Of course, it was because his nose
is red and red has a longer wavelength compared to other
visible light colors. This means red light is less scattered by specks in the
atmosphere making it easier to be seen far away, even in snowy or foggy
weather. It also helps the other reindeer to follow him.
But why reindeer? These animals have physical
attributes that help with travel. Their superior vision helps them detect
subtle differences in terrain whether snow, ice, mud, or sand and splayed
hooves help distribute their weight for better traction as well as preventing
sinking.
While real reindeer don't fly, it is fun to explore how natural atmospheric phenomena could make flying possible. Fast-flowing atmospheric air currents can carry objects from one location to another and thermals, rising air currents, are known to lift gliders and drones. Research has not discovered the rivers of thermals that may exist throughout the world.
The Curling Ribbon Phenomenon
Those beautifully wrapped gifts under the Christmas tree are as anticipated by big kids as little ones. The paper and ribbons are a wide variety of styles and materials. Some of the best ribbons are the twisted and looping curls in the long thin ribbons.
Why does curling ribbon curl? You will note that the ribbons that curl are generally metallic or heavy paper and that fabric ribbons will not work. The twisting is due to non-uniform stress during peeling. When you pass the scissors, or other implement, over the ribbon, one side of the ribbon, even as thin as it is, is stretched more than the other. Hence, the ribbon twists due to the distortion of the material. In other words, if you had a material made of two layers, joined together, and one side suddenly became longer than the other, the material would bend. This is called "non-uniform" stress.
Carol Kagan
Just go with the magic.
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