Water Warrior

photo by Jessica Barger Waterskiing 101:

The science that buoys lake recreation

by Dr. Nate Bosch, director of the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams

If you have ever gone waterskiing, you know what it feels like to nearly walk on water. Water skiers glide along behind a boat, gripping the handle with white knuckles and resisting the wind. While they are moving, water skiers seem to skim across the surface of a lake with ease. But especially obvious when a bat splinters as the ball hits it!

Similarly, when a water skier leans back and places her ski tips out of the water, she is exerting pressure on the water. As the boat picks up speed and pulls the skier forward, the water strikes upward as the skis push down. That is an equal and opposite reaction. As long as the upward force of the water is equal to the pressure of the skis, the skier will stay afloat.

Now you know! The next time you are on the lake, you will understand the science behind waterskiing. Equal and opposite reactions allow water skiers to feel like they are walking on water.

Future skiers are relying on us to keep the lakes clean. Taking steps to help protect the waterways (like properly disposing of waste and regularly cleaning any equipment used in the lakes) will help ensure that water skiing can be enjoyed for years to come.

what is it about water, the right amount of speed, and the pressure of skis that makes this possible?

Waterskiing is tied to Newton’s Third Law of Motion, a fundamental principle of physics: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. For example, when a baseball player hits a ball, an equal and opposite reaction occurs. The bat swings forward and exerts force on the ball, sending it soaring across the diamond. But the ball also exerts force on the bat. This is Want to know which lakes are all-sport lakes, and where you can rent equipment like kayaks and paddleboards? Visit lakes@grace.edu. You can also find detailed studies and helpful blog posts about lake science. We strive to equip readers with the most relevant information so you can make informed decisions for your family and lake.

The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams at Grace College conducts research, provides resources, engages and educates residents, and collaborates with local organizations to make the lakes and streams of Kosciusko County clean, healthy, safe, and beautiful. To date, the Lilly Center has conducted scientific research on over 30 streams and 40 lakes. The Lilly Center is driven to create a legacy of stewardship by equipping community members, visitors and future generations to understand and enjoy the county’s natural beauty. For more information, visit lakes.grace.edu.