How fast is the progress?

From the fast-flying badminton birdie to the slower, heavier shot put, we show you the variety of speeds that will play a key role in who wins a medal. Is the object fast enough to travel a long distance? Is it fast enough to confuse opponents? speed will be maintained arrow real?

There is a world of difference between a birdie and a shot put. this birdie It’s about the fastest projectile you’ll see at the Olympics, and it’s as light as a feather—literally. It’s made from 16 goose feathers and weighs less than two-tenths of an ounce (about five grams).

Compare it with the men’s model shooting, one of the heaviest and slowest objects at the Summer Olympics. It weighs up to 16 pounds (7.26 kg), which is the maximum weight of a bowling ball. To win an Olympic medal, athletes need to hit a basketball more than three-quarters of the way across a basketball court.

As you watch the Olympics, remember how much the speed of an object affects the outcome. Follow The New York Times’ Olympic coverage.