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Golf Ball Dimples and Drag

CSEF · 2008 Aerodynamics/ Hydrodynamics (Junior Division Only)

Austin B.T. Keys · Branch (Irving L.) Elementary, Edwards, Kern County

Overview

Objectives/Goals Do golf balls really have to have dimples? That is what my science fair project is about. The purpose of this project is to see if golf balls really need dimples to travel a greater distance. Methods/Materials Two golf balls of similar size and shape, in addition, another golf ball was prepared by sanding the surface to a smooth finish. The tests were performed by placing the ball in the rubber slingshot and pulling it back to a starting point marked on a wooden platform. The device was released and the distance the golf ball traveled from the starting point was then measured in feet, using a measuring wheel. Results The golf ball with dimples traveled a greater distance than the one without dimples. Dimples make the golf ball go further. Conclusions/Discussion The project did support the hypothesis because the golf ball with dimples went a greater distance than the golf ball that was sanded down.

Summary statement

Proving whether or not golf balls need dimples.

Help received

Mom helped with gluing board; dad helped build the "slingshot"; Chris Barnum, student mentor, helped with ideas; Joan Piper and Kim Cantrell, teachers, helped with research ideas

Competition history

  • CSEF 2008 Aerodynamics/ Hydrodynamics (Junior Division Only) · Entry J0112

Resources

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Source: California Science & Engineering Fair public projects

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