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Physics, Astronomy & Cosmology / Why aren't all flying objects dimpled like golf balls?
« on: 25/01/2010 19:30:03 »
gary.topple asked the Naked Scientists:
Hi Chris,
I don't play golf but I know that golf balls are dimpled to aid their flight through the air. I understand that dimpled golf balls can travel twice the distance of a plain one for an equal force applied.
There is obviously a surface effect with the dimpled golf ball that improves its aerodynamic efficiency. A golf ball does not have uniform rotation when struck by the club so this can be discounted as having an effect.
Logic then dictates that all objects that penetrate the air, and I mean aircraft, road vehicles trains etc. should have surfaces designed with golf ball like dimples to improve their aerodynamic efficiency thus reducing the amount of energy needed to propel them!
Is this the most brilliant ad hoc energy conservation idea ever and can I claim the Nobel Peace Prize for Brilliant Ideas.
Gary, in Felixstowe.
What do you think?
Hi Chris,
I don't play golf but I know that golf balls are dimpled to aid their flight through the air. I understand that dimpled golf balls can travel twice the distance of a plain one for an equal force applied.
There is obviously a surface effect with the dimpled golf ball that improves its aerodynamic efficiency. A golf ball does not have uniform rotation when struck by the club so this can be discounted as having an effect.
Logic then dictates that all objects that penetrate the air, and I mean aircraft, road vehicles trains etc. should have surfaces designed with golf ball like dimples to improve their aerodynamic efficiency thus reducing the amount of energy needed to propel them!
Is this the most brilliant ad hoc energy conservation idea ever and can I claim the Nobel Peace Prize for Brilliant Ideas.
Gary, in Felixstowe.
What do you think?