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Trees, regardless of size, all break at the same wind speed

Doubling the size of a tree only increases the required wind speed by 9%; likewise, using wood more resistant to fracturing (oak versus pine) increased the critical wind speed by less than 10%. The scientists point out that their finding may reflect an optimization over evolutionary time, as wind speeds on Earth rarely exceed 50 m/s. The mathematical relationship could also explain how corals and other sedentary organisms grow in water currents.

via Trees, regardless of size, all break at the same wind speed. Here’s why. | Science | AAAS.

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