Objects that enter Earth鈥檚 atmosphere are subject to extreme heat through air friction 鈥� so much so that returning spacecraft have to be very well insulated, and rocks and small asteroids burn up. How fast would I have to go to feel heat from air friction? When I鈥檓 on my bike going downhill quickly, I can only feel it getting colder and colder.
Ben Cordle, London, UK
We pay 拢25 for every answer published in New 杏吧原创. To answer this question 鈥� or ask a new one 鈥� visit newscientist.com/lastword. Terms and conditions apply.
This article appeared in print under the headline 鈥淎 chill wind鈥�
Advertisement