Indianapolis 500 technical terms, and what they mean to fans

Do you like watching the Indianapolis 500 but can't relate to what the gearheads and analysts are saying? We're here to help. While strategists, team bosses, drivers and television announcers are speaking English, it's easy to feel like you're hearing a foreign language.

What is a "tow," or "marbles," or "boost? " With the help of the IndyCar Series media guide , here are some of the phrases you'll likely hear when the cars are on track. Indy 500 aerodynamics terms: chassis, downforce, tow, push, loose Aerodynamics : You will hear analysts discuss a car's "aero package.

" In racing, that means the interaction between air and the resistance and pressures created as a car cuts through air on the track. Chassis or "tub" : The central body of the car, including the driver’s compartment. Dallara produces chassis for Indy cars.

Dirty air : Unstable airflow resulting from leading cars that can affect downforce, grip and cornering for a trailing car. On the IMS oval, a single car splitting the air on a long straightaway can help create a "tow" (see below), but multiple leading cars can create more difficult conditions for a trailing car. Also, the abrupt change of going into a corner can create dirty air for trailing cars.