Book 28, Question 27 · Video
What do the pebbles on a basketball do?
The surface of a basketball is pebbled, with thousands of little bumps. Each bump touches fingertips, which gives more places to grip and helps the ball stay in the hand while dribbling and passing. The bumps also hold on to tiny bits of sweat or moisture, so the ball doesn't slip as much. A smooth ball would feel slick, especially after it has been used.
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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. What do the pebbles on a basketball do?
The Big Idea
Run your fingers over a basketball. It's covered in tiny bumps! What are they for?
Thousands of Bumps
Step one: Thousands of Bumps. The surface of a basketball is pebbled, with thousands of little bumps. Each bump touches fingertips, giving more places to grip while dribbling and passing.
Moisture
Step two: Moisture. The bumps also hold on to tiny bits of sweat or moisture. So the ball doesn't slip as much.
Smooth Balls
Step three: Smooth Balls. A smooth ball would feel slick. That would be especially true after it has been used for a while.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Many grip spots. Touch the bumps. Bumps hold it. Smooth is slick.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Many balls have special patterns on their skin to improve grip. Thousands of bumps. Better dribbling grip. Smooth feels slick.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Feel a basketball's bumpy surface. Feel a smooth rubber ball. Try spinning each one in your hand. Which is easier to hold? Why do you think so?
Outro
A basketball is covered with thousands of tiny pebbled bumps that give fingertips more places to grip. The bumps also hold a little sweat so the ball doesn't slip. A smooth ball would feel slick. 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!