6 chapters across the catalog
Scientific American's podcast explores the theoretical gaps in explaining how airplanes stay in the air, citing the incomplete nature of Bernoulli's and Newton's theories. The segment mocks the publication for struggling with basic aerodynamics while having previously claimed to understand the complex collapse of WTC7. The discussion frames the report as part of a broader trend of anti-intellectualism in legacy science media.
CBS Mornings, Airfoil and Bernoulli Confusion
The hosts critique a segment on the new CBS Mornings third hour where hosts Tony Dokoupil and Adriana Diaz expressed confusion over how airplanes fly. Despite bringing in an aerospace expert to explain Bernoulli's principle and airfoils, the hosts remained baffled. Curry and Dvorak use this as an example of the declining intelligence of mainstream media personalities.
The hosts observe a significant decline in flying insects, noting that car windshields and grills no longer collect bugs as they did decades ago. While some attribute this to changes in car aerodynamics, the hosts suggest it contradicts the narrative of a climate-driven mosquito explosion.
A theory suggests that the perceived decline in insect populations—often called the "bugpocalypse"—may be partially due to modern car aerodynamics. Unlike boxy vehicles from the 1950s, contemporary cars are designed to lift air and insects over the windshield, resulting in fewer visible bug splatters.
No Agenda Racing and Electric Vehicle Mechanics
Sir Andrew Gardner provides an update on the No Agenda racing team's performance at the Virginia International Raceway. The conversation shifts back to the technical specifications of the Chevy Volt, including its 220V charging requirements, the transition between battery and gas engine, and a strange aerodynamic thumping sound caused by opening the rear windows at high speeds.
Olympic Athlete Uniforms and Television Ratings
Female Olympic pole vaulters are noted for wearing revealing uniforms, such as thongs and bikini tops, which contrasts with the full-coverage gear worn by male athletes in the same discipline. While some argue the attire is for aerodynamics and flexibility, the primary driver is identified as a strategy to boost television ratings and secure modeling contracts. The International Olympic Committee's financial scale is highlighted, noting billions of dollars in worldwide television rights.
