Why are meteorites cone-shaped?

Meteoroids coming from outer space are randomly shaped, but many of these, which land on earth as meteorites, are found to be carved into cones. Researchers from NYU Courant’s Applied Mathematics Lab have now figured out how the physics of flight in the atmosphere leads to this transformation.

This video is part of the Brainiacs Series which features the range of research currently underway at New York University’s global campuses, and its widespread impact on our health, 环境, and understanding of the world we live in.

Producer/Host/Editor SAPNA PARIKH, MD, MPH
Camera BOB KERR
Studio Producer DAN THOENNESSEN
Production Asst. ALYCIA MACCAULL
Animation Open JOSH MAGPANTAY
Music BRIAN WAYY/POND5

Recorded at the NYU Stern Studio
Produced by the NYU Office of Public Affairs
Supplemental footage by Storyblocks