How does a curveball curve? An aerospace engineer explains

In baseball, a pitcher can throw a ball that seems to curve away just as it crosses the plate. How do they do it? It’s all about aerodynamics.

By: Jim Gregory, The Ohio State University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: June 21, 2026

Words: 545

Last Updated: 1 month ago

By Jim Gregory, The Ohio State University

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

How does a curveball curve? – Marek Powell, age 12, Dorchester, Massachusetts

You may have seen a pitcher throw a curveball in baseball. It’s a pitch that can confuse a batter because it looks like it’s flying straight …

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