Flocking together: the physics of sheep herding and pedestrian flows

<p style="font-weight: 400;"></p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">In this episode of <em>Physics World Stories</em>, host Andrew Glester shepherds you through the fascinating world of crowd dynamics. While gazing at a flock of sheep or meandering through a busy street, you may not immediately think of the physics at play – but there is much more than you think. Give the episode a listen to discover the surprising science behind how animals and people move together in large groups.</p> <p style="font-weight: 400;">The first guest, <a href="https://philipball.co.uk">Philip Ball</a>, a UK-based science writer, explores the principles that underpin the movement of sheep in flocks. Insights from physics can even be used to inform herding tactics, whereby dogs are guided – usually through whistles – to control flocks of sheep and direct them towards a chosen destination. For even more detail, check out Ball’s recent <em>Physics World</em> feature &#8220;<a href="https://physicsworld.com/a/fiel...