Book 26, Question 32 · Video
How have shark-skin ideas been used in swimsuits and hospitals?
Shark skin is covered in tiny, ridged scales that reduce drag. Swimsuit makers tried similar textures, and in 2008 many swimmers broke records in new suits. Much of that speed came from tight, water-shedding fabric, and swimming’s governing body banned most of those suits in 2010. Another use is a surface pattern copied from shark skin, called Sharklet, that makes it harder for germs to settle on hospital surfaces.
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What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How have shark-skin ideas been used in swimsuits and hospitals?
The Big Idea
Shark skin feels rough like sandpaper! Its tiny scales have inspired swimsuits and hospital surfaces. Let's dive in.
Ridged Scales
Step one: Ridged Scales. Shark skin is covered in tiny, ridged scales that reduce drag. Water slides past more easily.
Swimsuits
Step two: Swimsuits. Swimsuit makers tried similar textures, and in 2008 many swimmers broke records in new suits. Much of that speed came from tight, water-shedding fabric, and swimming's governing body banned most of those suits in 2010.
Sharklet
Step three: Sharklet. Another use is a surface pattern copied from shark skin, called Sharklet. It makes it harder for germs to settle on hospital surfaces.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Tiny tooth scales. Ridges line them. Water slides by. Germs struggle to stick.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! The tiny scales on a shark are called dermal denticles. Suits banned in 2010. Patterns fight germs. Sharks glide fast.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Cut one smooth card and one ribbed card from corrugated cardboard. Drag each through a tub of water. Which one feels like more drag? Try the ribs running different directions. Which direction worked best?
Outro
Shark skin has tiny ridged scales that reduce drag. Swimsuits copied the idea before most were banned, and a pattern called Sharklet helps keep germs off hospital surfaces. Science is amazing! Keep wondering and keep exploring! Share what you learned with someone at home, and see what they think! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!