Basic Physics of Rowing

Basic Physics of Rowing
1. Propulsion
2. Resistance
3. Kinetic Energy
4. Centre of Mass
5. Speed Variation
6. Balance
7. Levers
8. Gearing
9. Appendix: Newton's Laws of Motion
1. Propulsion
A boat accelerates through the action/reaction principle (Newton's 3rd Law). You move water one way with your oar, the boat moves the other way. The momentum (=mass x velocity) you put into the water will be equal and opposite to the momentum acquired by the boat.
Consider a boat before and after a stroke.
Figure (1.1)
Before the stroke, total momentum p = 0, since everything is at rest.
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