Cover Image: June 2001 Scientific American Magazine See Inside

Aerodynamics [Preview]















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aerodynamics

Image: Aerodynamics Source: STEVE AOYAMA / Titleist

Drag on a smooth, soaring golf ball is created by the difference between high air pressure against the front of the ball and low pressure behind it, the latter caused by the laminar separation of airflow.

Dimples cause turbulence in the thin layer of air against the ball, which reduces airflow separation, creating more back pressure and thereby reducing drag.


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