Physics in Flying Kite

  The exact date and origin of the kite is not known but it is believed that they were flown in China more than two thousand years ago. One legend insists that the kite was born when a Chinese farmer tied a string to his hat to keep it from blowing away in a strong wind. Kite flying was eventually spread by traders from China to Korea, and across Asia to India.Each country developed a unique style of kite and cultural purpose for flying them.

 

  During the Silla Dynasty of Korea around the year 600, General Gim Yu-sin was ordered to subdue a revolt. However, his troops refused to fight. They had seen a large shooting star fall from the sky and believed it to be a bad omen. To regain control, the General used a large kite to carry a fire ball into the sky. The soldiers, seeing the star return to heaven, rallied and defeated the rebels.

 

  Kites were brought to Japan about the 7th century by Buddhist monks. They were used to avert evil spirits and to insure rich harvests. Marco Polo carried stories of kites to Europe around the end of the 13th century. In the 18th and 19th centuries, kites were used as vehicles and tools for scientific research.

 

  During World War I, the British, French, Italian, and Russian armies all used kites for enemy observation and signaling.The last 50 years has seen renewed interest in kiting. New materials like ripstop nylon, fiberglass, and carbon graphite have made kites stronger, lighter, more colorful, and more durable.