Figure skating phenom Ilia Malinin continues to captivate audiences at the 2026 Winter Olympics, with his mastery of the quadruple axel, the most difficult jump in the sport, drawing both awe and scientific scrutiny. Malinin's performances, including backflips, have electrified crowds, as noted by a reporter, who observed the "collective roar" of the audience during his routines.
The physics behind the quadruple axel, a jump that involves four and a half rotations in the air, has been a subject of study. According to a 2024 study published in the journal Sports Biomechanics by Toin University researcher Seiji Hirosawa, achieving significant height is crucial for executing the jump successfully. Skaters need to get approximately 20 inches off the ground to complete the maneuver.
The impact of Malinin's performances extends beyond the rink. The crowd's reaction, as witnessed by the reporter, underscores the jump's dramatic effect. The current scoring system in figure skating also plays a role, as landing a quadruple axel can significantly boost an athlete's score.
While Malinin's talent is exceptional, the complexities of the jump have also spurred scientific investigation. The study by Hirosawa offers insights into the physics at play, bringing scientists closer to understanding how the quad axel works.
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