2009
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0812533106
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Abstract: In this experimental and theoretical study, we investigate the slithering of snakes on flat surfaces. Previous studies of slithering have rested on the assumption that snakes slither by pushing laterally against rocks and branches. In this study, we develop a theoretical model for slithering locomotion by observing snake motion kinematics and experimentally measuring the friction coefficients of snakeskin. Our predictions of body speed show good agreement with observations, demonstrating that snake propulsion … Show more

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Cited by 326 publications
(427 citation statements)
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“…According to our experiments, the Froude number is very small ðFr 2 Â 10 À4 Þ indicating inertial force is extremely small compared with gravitational force. In comparison, Froude numbers for other snake gaits are one to two orders of magnitude larger: Fr % 0:002--0:016 for concertina motion [6] and Fr % 0:02 [4] for slithering. Clearly, rectilinear locomotion has lower inertial forces than the other snake gaits.…”
Section: Modelmentioning
confidence: 99%
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“…According to our experiments, the Froude number is very small ðFr 2 Â 10 À4 Þ indicating inertial force is extremely small compared with gravitational force. In comparison, Froude numbers for other snake gaits are one to two orders of magnitude larger: Fr % 0:002--0:016 for concertina motion [6] and Fr % 0:02 [4] for slithering. Clearly, rectilinear locomotion has lower inertial forces than the other snake gaits.…”
Section: Modelmentioning
confidence: 99%
“…These estimates of ventral surface lifting will be incorporated into our prediction of snake energy expenditure in §5. 4. This difference is likely due to the difference in their habitat: Gaboon vipers and red-tailed boas live arboreally in rainforests and woodlands and so need high friction to climb trees.…”
Section: Snakes Lift Ventral Surfaces To Move Forwardmentioning
confidence: 99%
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