Stone skipping

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A stone skimming across the water

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People skipping stones in Haast, New Zealand

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Diagram of a stone skipping

Stone skipping is the art of throwing a flat stone across the surface of a body of water in such a way that it bounces off the surface multiple times. The sport is also known by several other names, including "stone skimming", "skipping rocks", "skipping stones", or "duck and drake" in British English. Stone skipping is a popular pastime in many cultures around the world, where the simple joy of seeing how many times a stone can bounce before sinking appeals to both children and adults alike.

History

The origins of stone skipping are unknown, but it is likely that the activity has been enjoyed by humans for thousands of years, possibly as long as humans have been interacting with bodies of water. The first recorded instances of stone skipping are difficult to pinpoint, as it has been a casual, recreational activity for most of its history. However, it has been mentioned in literature and folklore for centuries, indicating its long-standing presence in human culture.

Physics

The physics behind stone skipping is complex, involving principles of aerodynamics, hydrodynamics, and angular momentum. For a stone to skip, it must be thrown with a spinning motion, which stabilizes its flight. When the stone hits the water, the angle of the stone in relation to the water's surface (angle of attack), its velocity, and the spin all contribute to whether and how well it skips. The stone generates lift in a manner similar to an airplane wing, which, along with the water's surface tension, supports the stone across the water.

Technique

Choosing the right stone is crucial for successful stone skipping. The ideal stone is usually flat, smooth, and round or oval in shape, allowing it to glide across the water's surface easily. The technique for throwing involves holding the stone between the thumb and forefinger, drawing the arm back, and then rapidly swinging it forward while flicking the wrist to impart spin to the stone. The aim is to achieve a low angle of attack, maximizing the number of bounces.

Competitions

Stone skipping has grown from a casual pastime to a competitive sport, with events held around the world. Competitors are judged on the number of skips, with some competitions also considering the distance or the style of the skips. The current world record for the most stone skips is held by Kurt Steiner, who achieved 88 skips in 2013.

Cultural Impact

Beyond its appeal as a leisure activity, stone skipping has been featured in various cultural works, including films, music, and literature, often symbolizing simplicity, nostalgia, or the enjoyment of nature. It also serves as a metaphor in discussions about the ripple effects of actions in broader contexts.

See Also

• Physics of sports
• Recreational activities
• World records in stone skipping