Exploring the Dynamics of Longboard Waves


Intro
Longboarding is more than just a pastime; itâs a culture, a way of life, and a canvas for self-expression. Surfing with a longboard takes this to another level, riding waves that offer both challenge and thrill. The relationship between longboards and the dynamic nature of waves is a complex tapestry woven together by physics, artistry, and the environment. Understanding how these elements interact helps surfers not only improve their skills but also deepens their appreciation for the sport.
In this exploration, we'll unravel the technical intricacies of longboard surfing, delve into the various wave types perfect for it, and look into how factors like wind and tide influence surfing conditions. Weâre also going to highlight important techniques, equipment, and the cultural significance that longboarding holds within the broader surfing community. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious novice, thereâs something here for everyone.
Gear and Equipment
Longboarding requires a unique set of gear tailored to enhance performance and safety. Below, we delve into the essential equipment every longboard surfer needs, as well as the latest innovations making waves in the surf industry.
Latest Surfboard Technologies
When it comes to longboards, the choices are vast and varied. Epoxy boards, for instance, have stormed onto the scene due to their light weight and durability. A board made from an epoxy material tends to be more buoyant and resilient to dents compared to traditional polyurethane boards.
Other recent advancements include:
- Hybrid Designs: Blending traditional longboard shapes with shortboard designs for versatility.
- Fin Systems: Removable fin systems allow surfers to modify their ride depending on the wave conditions.
- Tail Shapes: Various tail shapes, like the square or pintail, affect ride stability and turn responsiveness.
The evolution of surfboard technology underscores a commitment to optimizing performance while maintaining the essence of longboarding. Choosing the right board tailored to oneâs surfing style can significantly improve performance on the waves.
Essential Accessories for Every Surfer
Beyond the surfboard, various accessories are crucial for both enjoyment and safety. Essential items include:
- Leash: Prevents the board from getting away during wipeouts.
- Wetsuit: A must in colder waters, it provides thermal insulation and protection.
- Wax: Helps maintain grip on the board, crucial for maneuverability.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen and rash guards protect against harmful UV rays.
Having the right gear not only improves safety but also enhances the overall surfing experience.
"The only way to get better at surfing is to spend more time on the board, riding the waves."
Surfing, especially longboarding, is as much about the ride as it is about the gear. Knowing what gear suits your style and learning about the latest innovations can enhance both your performance and enjoyment.
Surf Techniques and Skills
Longboarding is not just about riding waves; itâs an art. Mastering both fundamental techniques and advanced maneuvers showcases the skill set of any longboarder.
Beginner Surfing Techniques
For those just dipping their toes into longboarding, there are several key techniques to focus on:
- Paddling: Learning how to paddle efficiently is crucial. Use broad strokes for better glide.
- Positioning: Balance on the board is essential. Keep your weight balanced evenly between your feet.
- Pop-Up: Practice the transition from lying down to standing up. Smoothness counts in gaining speed.
Mastering these initial techniques will lay a solid foundation as surfers progress to more complex skills.
Advanced Maneuvers for Experienced Surfers
For the more seasoned longboarders, various maneuvers can enhance the style and grace of their surfing:
- Nose Riding: Standing on the front of the board, this requires balance and confidence, best executed on a smooth, peeling wave.
- Cutbacks: Sharp turns that allow surfers to redirect their momentum back towards the crest of the wave.
- 360s: A full rotation on the wave for those who really want to show off their control.
Ultimately, the mastery of these techniques helps longboarders express themselves uniquely on the waves. Remember, practice is key to progress and improvement.
By examining these facets of longboarding, we can appreciate the nuanced relationship between gear, skills, and the waves themselves. As the surfing landscape continues to evolve, both novice and experienced surfers can benefit from engaging with this sport more deeply.
Prolusion to Longboarding
Longboarding is more than just a method of carving waves; it's a rich tapestry woven from waves, culture, and the very ocean itself. To fellow surfers, enthusiasts, and curious onlookers, understanding longboarding opens doors to a world where the rhythm of the sea meets the artistry of surfing. This introduction serves to set the stage for a detailed examination of longboardingâits defining characteristics, historical roots, and, quite simply, why it matters in todayâs surf culture.
Defining Longboarding
To put it plainly, longboarding involves riding a surfboard that is typically over nine feet in length. This extended size allows for more fluid movements and lends itself to cruising on the waves. Longboards are often associated with specific styles of surfing that prioritize grace and flow over agility and speed, which can be a game-changer for surfers eager to explore different wave dynamics.
There's a certain freedom that comes with longboarding. The boards glide smoothly across the water, making even the most subtle waves rideable. It's often said that riding a longboard feels much like dancing on the waterâsmooth, rhythmic, and elegant. In a world that leans heavily on performance and high stakes, longboarding is a reminder of the simple pleasure the ocean can provide.


History and Evolution
The history of longboarding is as deep as the ocean itself. It dates back to ancient Hawaiian culture, where surfers would ride wooden planks made from local trees. In essence, longboarding connects us to a time when surfing was not merely a sport, but a way of life. From these early years, longboarding went through different phasesâa blend of regional styles and innovations, like fiberglass boards that came onto the scene in the mid-20th century.
As the sport evolved and new techniques emerged, so did the community culture surrounding longboarding. It blossomed in various coastal towns, building a vibrant community of surfers who shared not just techniques but stories, beliefs, and passion for the ocean. This evolution is vital to understanding the dynamics of longboard waves.
Furthermore, the global reach of longboarding has led to a diverse set of practices and styles, influenced by surfer's locales across the globe, from Californiaâs sandy beaches to Indonesiaâs powerful reef breaks. Each location offers unique challenges and wave types, reflecting how the sport can be uniquely local while universally appealing.
"Longboarding is not just about catching waves; itâs about connecting with the ocean and embracing the journey it takes us on."
Thus, the dynamics of longboarding waves are not just any technical aspectâthey are part of a rich history and lifestyle that transcends the simple act of surfing. Understanding longboarding helps to appreciate its impact on the surfing community at large and reveals the interplay between surfboards, waves, and surfers. The following sections will further unravel this connection and underscore the importance of mastering the current that sustains this compelling culture.
Understanding Waves
Waves are the backbone of longboarding; they shape the experience and determine whether a ride will be thrilling or frustrating. Understanding waves can elevate a surferâs performance considerably, helping them to choose the right conditions for their skill set and style. A deeper grasp of wave dynamics not only enhances oneâs riding experience but also contributes to safety in the water. For longboarders particularly, knowing how to read waves can make the difference between catching the perfect ride or wiping out.
Wave Formation Mechanics
Waves are born through various processes, primarily driven by wind. As wind travels across the surface of the ocean, it transfers energy to the water, creating ripples that can grow into powerful waves. This mechanism involves several factors, such as wind speed, duration, and fetch â the distance over which the wind blows. The steeper the waveâs energy is channeled, the larger and more forceful it becomes. Longboarders need to appreciate this; they must be able to identify conditions that produce more favorable wave shapes for gentle surfing.
In essence, understanding how waves form helps surfers navigate different conditions. A well-formed wave can give longboarders more time to maneuver, allowing them to ride longer and more gracefully.
Types of Waves for Longboarding
Different wave types present distinct opportunities and challenges for longboard surfers. The most common types include beach breaks, point breaks, and reef breaks. Each has its unique characteristics, making some more suitable for longboarding than others.
Beach Breaks
Beach breaks can be found along various coastlines, where waves break over sandy bottoms. These waves are often considered beginner-friendly as they offer a variety of peaks, depending on the wind and tide conditions. One key characteristic of beach breaks is their ability to produce consistent waves throughout different tides, which is a real bonus for those looking to ride over extended periods.
The unique feature of beach breaks is their adaptability. Surfers can choose their spot based on their skills and the conditions at play. They tend to be well-loved spots due to their accessibility and potential for fun rides. However, they can also be unpredictable, with shifting sands often changing the waveâs quality.
Point Breaks
Point breaks occur when waves hit a point of land, directing the swell toward the shore at an angle. This type is adored by longboarders for its smooth and predictable lines. A notable characteristic of point breaks is the long, peeling waves they provide, allowing surfers to practice maneuvering at their leisure. The benefit here is the relief from crowded beach spots, as point breaks tend to spread surfers along a longer line.
When riding a point break, a surfer can ride the wave nearly until it fades out completely, presenting an extraordinary opportunity for long turns and radius maneuvers. However, accessing point breaks may sometimes involve longer treks or specific timing with the tide.
Reef Breaks
Reef breaks are formed over coral or rocky reefs. These waves, known for being powerful and consistent, can create some of the most exhilarating rides. They offer a key characteristic of steep faces and hollow sections, ideal for experienced longboarders looking to push their limits. One unique aspect of reef breaks is their capability to deliver high-quality waves with considerable speed, often increasing in intensity during specific swells.
However, the downside is apparent; reef breaks can be hazardous. Surfing in these areas necessitates mindfulness about the sharp coral and rocky bottom. Only skilled surfers should venture into these breaks, as a wipeout can lead to serious injuries.
Understanding these three types of waves equips longboarders with valuable insights, ensuring they can select their surfing spots wisely, catering to their skill levels and what they wish to gain from the ride. Whether itâs the variety offered by beach breaks or the thrilling precision required at reef breaks, each wave type contributes uniquely to a longboarder's journey.
Knowledge of waves is like a map for the sea; it guides the surfer toward better experiences and safer journeys.
Characteristics of Longboard-Friendly Waves
Understanding the characteristics of longboard-friendly waves is paramount for both aspiring and seasoned surfers who wish to cultivate their skills and appreciate the finer aspects of this sport. These waves play a crucial role in dictating not just the enjoyment of surfing but also the safety and performance of the rider. By examining wave conditions such as height, period, frequency, and breaking patterns, surfers can make informed choices that enhance their longboarding experience.
Ideal Wave Conditions
Wave Height
Wave height influences almost every element of longboarding. It can determine whether a wave is rideable, enjoyable, or downright dangerous. Typically, ideal wave heights for longboarding range between waist to head high, as these provide enough wall for maneuvering without overwhelming the rider. Surfers value these heights as they tend to create a more forgiving environment.
- Key Characteristic: The range of waist to head high allows for a balance between stability and excitement. Surfers at different skill levels can find their sweet spot within this range.
- Unique Feature: This height offers a blend of power and form, creating rolling waves that are easier to catch and ride smoothly.
- Advantages: More experienced longboard surfers can perform turns and noserides gracefully in these conditions. However, waves that exceed this height can introduce significant risks, particularly for those who are still mastering their technique.
Period and Frequency
Wave period refers to the time it takes for successive waves to pass a stationary point, while frequency is all about how many waves hit the shore in a given time. Understanding these concepts is crucial for longboarders looking to predict wave behavior at their favorite spots.
- Key Characteristic: A longer wave periodâusually around 10 to 15 secondsâtypically indicates more powerful waves that can travel greater distances without losing energy. This feature is beneficial, as it usually results in cleaner and more organized waves conducive to longboarding.
- Unique Feature: With a longer period, riders can anticipate sets that allow for smoother rides and better opportunities to catch waves before they break.
- Advantages: A stable frequency helps surfers find rhythm, enhancing the overall experience while riding. The downside is that in spots with a short period, waves can become choppy, complicating the ride and increasing the risk of wipeouts.


Breaking Patterns
Breaking patterns are fundamental in assessing longboard-friendly waves. These patterns determine how and when a wave will crest and, subsequently, how it can be ridden effectively. Generally, longboarders look for waves that break gradually, allowing them more time to position themselves effectively and to carry out maneuvers. Popular breaking types include:
- Soft Breaks: These are ideal for beginners because they allow surfers time to react and adjust their balance as the wave peels away.
- Consistent Breaks: Experienced surfers look for waves that break in a routine fashion, as this predictability allows for more advanced tricks and rides.
- Reef Breaks: While thrilling, these require greater skill and caution due to the proximity of shallow rocks.
Evaluating these patterns not only enhances oneâs surfing skills but also contributes to a deeper appreciation of the dynamics at play in the ocean.
In essence, knowing the characteristics of waves is like having a roadmap for a longboarder. The right conditions can transform an average session into an unforgettable ride, making them vital for anyone passionate about this exhilarating endeavor.
Techniques for Longboard Surfing
When stepping onto a longboard, understanding the right techniques can make all the difference between a smooth ride and a wipeout. Longboarding isnât just about catching waves; it's an art form that combines skill, balance, and a deep understanding of the ocean's nuances. Whether you're a novice or someone who has ridden countless waves, perfecting these techniques can elevate your performance significantly.
Paddling and Positioning
Paddling may seem straightforward, but its importance cannot be overstated. An efficient paddle technique is what gets you into the best position to catch waves. To paddle effectively, you need to engage your core while using long sweeping strokes. Avoid short, choppy movementsâthey can tire you out quickly. Instead, think of each stroke as a way to greet the water, making your body low to the board for better aerodynamics.
- Body Positioning: Lying too far back can hinder your ability to catch waves, while being too forward risks nose-diving when you catch one. Aim for a centered position, balancing your weight evenly. This allows your board to perform optimally in the water.
- Timing is Key: The moment before a wave breaks is when you should begin your paddling. This timing increases your chances of catching it perfectly. Basically, if you time your paddling right, you can consider yourself halfway to riding that wave.
Riding the Wave
Balance and Posture
One of the key aspects of riding a wave lies in maintaining balance and posture. When you're on the board, you want to keep your knees bent and your center of gravity low. This not only stabilizes your ride but also gives you the agility to shift your weight when needed.
- Key Characteristic: Having a strong stance allows you to read the wave's movements effectively. As the wave curls beneath you, your body responds naturally to its rhythm, allowing for smoother transitions. This is really what sets good longboarders apart from the rest; itâs about instinct and reaction, not just muscle.
- Benefits: A proper stance allows for a greater range of movement. You can dip, slide, or stepâ maneuvering your board with an ease that encourages more expressive riding.
- Unique Feature: Unlike shortboards, longboards provide a larger surface area, allowing for more stability. This is beneficial for beginner surfers who might struggle with balance at first.
Turn Techniques
Turning on a longboard is not just about moving left or right; it's an intricate dance that requires finesse. The bottom turn, for example, is essential for setting your trajectory as you ride the wave. Youâll want to lean into your turns, using your weight to carve through the water gracefully.
- Key Characteristic: Employing fluid motions allows for seamless transitions, making the ride appear effortless. This technique can also enhance your control over the board as you navigate different wave conditions.
- Benefits: Turning not only aligns your path with the wave's flow but can also create opportunities for tricks or deeper drops in larger swells. It opens a world of creativity, something every longboarder craves.
- Unique Feature: Longboards allow for walking the nose, which is not only a hallmark of classic longboarding but also enhances your ability to control the board while turning. This means you can engage with the wave differently, sometimes deciding to hang ten for a bit before shifting back into your turn.
In sum, mastering these techniques is crucial for anyone looking to surf on a longboard. With each paddle, balance shift, and turn, surfers forge a deeper connection with the water. The ocean isnât just a backdrop; itâs part of the experience, calling out for the right dance partner.
Equipment Essentials for Longboarders
When it comes to longboarding, having the right equipment isnât just an afterthought; it can make or break your experience on the surf. The craft of longboarding demands more than just skill; it requires an understanding of the essential gear that enhances performance and ensures safety. This section highlights the key elements to consider when selecting your longboard and the necessary accessories to elevate your surfing game.
Choosing the Right Longboard
The choice of longboard is like picking the perfect pair of shoes; it needs to feel just right. Longboards come in a range of shapes and sizes, designed to cater to different styles of surfing and varying conditions.
- Length and Width: Most longboards are typically between 8 to 12 feet long. A longer board offers better stability, making it ideal for beginners, while a shorter board is more maneuverable for tricks and tight turns. Incidentally, a wider board provides better buoyancy, so those who like cruising along gentle waves might prefer this option.
- Tail Shape: There are a number of tail shapes to consider. The square tail allows for sharp turns, while a round tail offers smoother, more fluid movements. If youâre looking to perform classic maneuvers on smaller waves, you might want to keep this aspect in mind.
One key thing to remember is the board's material. Epoxy boards tend to be lighter and more buoyant than traditional polyurethane, making them ideal for longboarders who value performance and responsiveness.
Additional Gear Considerations
With a good longboard in hand, itâs also vital to have the right accessories, starting with wetsuits, leashes, and fins.
Wetsuits
Wetsuits are not merely about warmth; they significantly enhance your overall surfing experience. A good wetsuit keeps your temperature regulated, allowing you to stay in the water longer, regardless of the season.
A key characteristic of wetsuits is their thickness, which often ranges from 2mm to 5mm. Thicker suits are typically seen in colder waters, providing necessary insulation. On the other hand, a 2mm wetsuit offers comfort in warmer climates, perfect for summer surf trips to places like California or Hawaii.
One unique feature worth mentioning is the material called NeoPrne which allows for flexibility and ease of movement. This is important because when you're trying to maintain balance on your longboard, you donât want to feel restricted. However, keep in mind that thickness also affects buoyancy, so youâll want to strike a balance that fits your needs based on water temperature and personal comfort.
Leashes and Fins
Leashes and fins might not get the same spotlight as longboards, but they play a crucial role in ensuring safety and performance.


The leash is a critical piece of gear that connects you to your board. A good leash will prevent your board from floating away if you wipe out. Look for a leash thatâs the same length as your board; itâll provide the perfect connection without hindering your movements.
Fins, on the other hand, affect how the board handles in different conditions. Single fins are generally better for cruising and longboard styles, giving you that classic, smooth ride. Thruster setups, with three fins, offer more agility, and they work well for those who enjoy paddling in bigger waves. A particularly fascinating aspect of fins is fin boxes that allow for easy switching between setups depending on your surf conditions.
The right combination of longboard, wetsuit, leash, and fins is like having the perfect recipe; it sets you up for success on the waves.
Environmental Influences on Wave Dynamics
The relationship between longboarding and waves is intricately woven into environmental factors. Understanding these influences is not just an academic exercise; it's vital for surfers who want to optimize their experience. Various elements, particularly wind, tides, and seasonal changes, play a pivotal role in shaping the waves we ride. This section delves deeper into these aspects, revealing how they affect wave quality and, ultimately, the joy of longboarding.
Effects of Wind and Tides
Wind and tides are fundamental to the formation and behavior of ocean waves. On a basic level, wind generates waves by transferring energy to the surface of the water. A gentle breeze might create small, choppy waves, while strong winds can lead to serious swells, ideal for seasoned longboarders seeking a thrill. However, itâs not just the strength of the wind that matters. The consistency and direction are equally important.
- Onshore winds typically produce messy, poorly formed waves. They often create a chaotic surf experience that can frustrate even the most skilled surfers.
- Offshore winds, on the other hand, help to smooth out the waves, leading to cleaner faces that are more fun to ride. This is especially crucial for longboarding, where smooth rides enhance the experience.
Tides also have a significant influence on surf conditions. Waves can behave entirely differently depending on whether itâs high tide or low tide. As the tide rises, waves can break closer to shore, providing opportunities for longboarders to catch a ride in shallower waters. Conversely, low tides might expose obstacles like sandbars, making it essential for surfers to be aware of the conditions to avoid injuries.
"The tidal changes remind surfers that the ocean is a living entityâever shifting, ever changing. Understanding tides is half the battle in finding the perfect wave."
Seasonal Considerations
Seasonal variations significantly impact wave quality and conditions for longboarding. Each season brings its unique set of challenges and benefits that avid surfers must consider when planning their outings.
- Winter Months: These typically yield larger swells in many locations around the world, drawing longboarders looking for huge waves. Storm systems further out in the ocean send powerful swells toward coastlines. However, entering the water can be a bit chilly, making wetsuits necessary.
- Spring and Fall: Transitional seasons often provide the most favorable conditions. Swells are usually more consistent, and weather conditions are milder. Surfers often find that these times yield excellent surf days without the crowds that summer can bring.
- Summer: Warm weather typically makes for excellent beach days, yet it can lead to smaller waves. Ideal surfing might require traveling to specific locations where summer swells provide enjoyable riding conditions.
Keep an eye on local forecasts and online surf reports; these can give valuable insights into wave conditions for longboarding. Websites like Surfline or Magic Seaweed are great for checking conditions.
In essence, being attuned to the environmental influences on wave dynamics can significantly enhance a surfer's experience. Surfing isnât merely a sport; itâs a dance with nature, an intricate relationship that requires understanding and respect.
Longboarding Culture and Community
Longboarding isn't just a sport; it's a vibrant culture and a close-knit community. Across the beaches and coastlines of the world, longboarding brings together people from all walks of life, uniting them through a shared passion for riding waves and the thrill of gliding on water. This segment of the article is dedicated to dissecting the intricate fabric of longboarding culture, exploring its historical significance and modern-day practices.
Historical Significance
The roots of longboarding can be traced back to the early 20th century, originating in Hawaii. It began as a way for surfers to catch waves using longer boards, which offered better stability on rolling surf. The cultural significance of longboarding is intertwined with the Aloha spirit, promoting values like camaraderie, respect for nature, and the joy of riding waves.
In the 1960s, the sport gained traction on the mainland, particularly in California. The long, smooth waves became the perfect playground for surfers. By then, it also started to reflect the counterculture of the times, often associated with peace, love, and freedom. Surf films from that era painted longboarding not only as a sport but also as a lifestyle choice, creating icons out of legendary surfers like Duke Kahanamoku and Robert August.
This cultural legacy is still felt today, as the history of longboarding is celebrated through various events, documentaries, and local surf competitions, which honor the pioneers who shaped the sport. Historical surf shops, like Huntington Surf and Sport, serve as living museums, showcasing gear from the past and connecting old-timers with the younger generation.
Modern-Day Practices
Today's longboarding scene is a blend of tradition and innovation. The sport has seen a resurgence, especially with the rise of social media, where surfers share their rides and techniques online, creating a wider community than ever before.
- Events and Competitions: Various competitions, such as The Longboard Classic and World Longboard Tour, celebrate the skills of longboard surfers while maintaining a spirit of fun and inclusion. Surfers of all skill levels can participate, and often, the competitions emphasize style over aggressive performance, embodying the laid-back nature of longboarding itself.
- Community Gatherings: Local meet-ups and beach clean-up events also play a role in fostering community. These gatherings serve to bring longboarders together, enhancing their connections while promoting environmental stewardship. This sense of responsibility towards nature resonates deeply with the core values upheld by the longboarding community.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Modern longboarding is increasingly inclusive, encouraging participation from diverse backgrounds. Women in longboarding are also gaining recognition, with athletes like Coco Ho inspiring many. There are now women-only events and initiatives tailored to promote female participation in a historically male-dominated sport.
In the world of longboarding, every wave has a story, and every community member has a role in shaping the narrative.
End: The Future of Longboarding
As we look ahead in this exciting realm of longboarding, it becomes increasingly clear that the dynamics of waves and the culture surrounding them are ever-evolving. Longboarding is not just about catching a wave; it's about embracing a lifestyle that connects the rider with nature, community, and innovation. Understanding the future of longboarding requires us to examine several crucial elements that shape this burgeoning surf culture.
Emerging Trends
In today's world, longboarding is witnessing a surge in popularity, particularly among younger generations who value both adventure and sustainability. Emerging trends include the use of advanced materials for boards, which enhance performance and durability. For example, the rise of eco-friendly alternatives such as bamboo and recycled plastics reflects a growing consciousness towards environmental impact.
Moreover, we see innovative designs tailored for different wave conditions, enabling surfers to tackle more diverse environments. The trend of app-based services that help surfers find optimal surf spots based on real-time data also plays a role in attracting newcomers to the sport. This technology not only enhances the surfing experience but also fosters community connectivity among surfers globally.
Sustainability in Longboarding
The conversation about sustainability is crucial as it relates to the future of longboarding. Enthusiasts and companies alike are becoming acutely aware of the need to reduce waste and use sustainable materials. Here are important considerations in this area:
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Longboarding brands are now more often opting for bio-resin and renewable materials rather than conventional surfboard materials that can harm the environment.
- Local Craftsmanship: Supporting artisan manufacturers who produce boards locally can reduce carbon footprints associated with transportation and promote fair labor practices.
- Community Initiatives: Many surf festivals and competitions now incorporate beach clean-up events, which create a broader sense of responsibility among surfers.
These practices signal that longboarding might not only continue its growth but also embrace a philosophy centered on environmental stewardship. As longboarders become advocates for sustaining their ocean playgrounds, the future of longboarding will likely be marked by a harmonious balance between adventure and environmental responsibility.
"The ocean is a mirror of our choices; letâs make waves, not waste."
As we conclude this exploration of longboard wavesâspanning the techniques, equipment, and community valuesâit is evident that the sport is carving a path forward that honors its roots while embracing modern advancements. The unity of culture, innovation, and sustainability in longboarding is not just a trend; itâs a emerging way of living in harmony with the world around us.