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You are here: Experts > Recreation/Outdoors > Golf > Golf > golf ball dimples
Golf - golf ball dimples
Expert: Ken Tannar - 10/28/2009
Question
How do the size and amount of dimples on a golf ball affect how far it goes?
Answer
Hi Austin,
Dimples alter the flow of air around the golf ball in such a way that drag resistance is reduced. A well hit drive with a dimpled ball may fly 270 yards, while one with no dimples hit with the same speed would only fly 150 yards.
Through trial and error have found that to minimize air drag, the number of dimples should be around 300 to 500. The size depends on the number. The greater the number, the smaller the dimples. There doesn't seem to be a signficant difference in ball flight for balls that have dimples in this range.
Here's a good webpage that explains some of the physics.
http://www.aerospaceweb.org/question/aerodynamics/q0215.shtml
Hope this helps.
Please visit and patronize my sites, www.probablegolfinstruction.com, www.tiger-woods-jack-nicklaus.com and www.golf-ball-vacation.com
Best regards,
Ken Tannar
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