a) to travel faster
b) to travel in a straighter line
c) to slow down quicker when they hit the ground
d) so they always land in the rough
2006-09-22 05:51:07 · 22 answers · asked by dB 4 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
The aerodynamics of a golf ball are quite complicated.
Here is a simple explanation.
The air surrounding any object moving through it forms a boundary layer. Within this boundary layer there is air close to the ball that is moving at the same velocity as the ball with the air velocity decreasing with increasing distance from the ball. There is a tendency for this boundary layer to separate from the surface of the ball causing turbulence behind the ball. The turbulence is caused by lost energy which is referred to a drag.
Putting dimples in the surface of the ball causes the boundary layer to separate from the ball's surface later. This reduces turbulence and drag.
Putting back spin on the ball creates lift by unbalancing the airflow around the ball. Lift allows the ball to fly further. Lift is improved when the dimples delay separation of the boundary layer.
So, overall, the dimples reduce drag which increases distance, they also improve lift generated by spin which further increases distance.
2006-09-22 06:17:31 · answer #1 · answered by Stewart H 4 · 4⤊ 0⤋
The dimples actually improve the overall aerodynamics of the ball, helping it travel straighter, faster, and farther. It has to do with round objects that are smaller. They used the same technology in bike racing jerseys on the arms (only part of the jersey small enough for the effect).
2006-09-22 13:03:09 · answer #2 · answered by Justin 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
To travel faster by reducing the air drag
2006-09-22 13:03:17 · answer #3 · answered by Dr M 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I believe that it si a
but each ball is made differently and some supposedly go in a starighter line, but I don't know if I believe that
2006-09-22 12:53:31 · answer #4 · answered by Britt 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I always heard it was to give the balls more loft (stay in the air longer) so they could travel farther.
2006-09-22 12:59:30 · answer #5 · answered by pinduck85 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just thought I'd add to your list:
They make the ball more aerodynamic, but other than that you've answered your own question.
Hope I helped!
2006-09-22 13:03:17 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It allows them to traven through the air in a more aerodynamic way
2006-09-22 12:53:22 · answer #7 · answered by Paul M 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
to generate Magnus lift
2006-09-22 13:06:03 · answer #8 · answered by mesun1408 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
To help fly when hit!
2006-09-22 12:57:59 · answer #9 · answered by sshhmmee2000 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
because it you hit them, it goes into the dimple?
lol
i think it is a
2006-09-22 13:04:27 · answer #10 · answered by cry 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋