QuestionI am a junior in High School and I am doing a physics power point presentation on golf. I need some help in determining the trajectory of a ball(on the green ,fairway, etc) any assistance you could give me would be greatly appreciated.
Answer
Hello Amber: Ball trajectory is influenced by many factors, the most of which is the face angle (loft) of the club being used. Putters (for use on the greens) have the least amount of loft and the wedges, the most. Trajectory of balls being hit in a vacuum by a mechanical device would only be influenced by loft. Other factors influencing trajectory include:
1. Golf club composition and design. Modern club design finds a good bit of the mass situated below the ball抯 center of gravity, thus increasing launch angles.
2. Golf ball composition and design. Dimple design and cover hardness affect spin rates. These factors might influence the length of time the trajectory is maintained as opposed to the initial trajectory.
3. Differences in golfers?swings will cause different face angles at impact as well as where on the club face the ball makes contact.
I don抰 envy you your project as it is not the most straightforward subject with which to deal. I did Google the subject and came up with these links which may or may not help but will put you on the path to more information.
http://www.probablegolfinstruction.com/science_golf_ball_flight.htm
http://onlinegolfer.net/2008/01/15/golf-club-lofts/
Good luck Amber. If your project ends up in a file you can email, I抎 be very interested in seeing it and hearing how it was received at school (grade).
Fairways and Greens,
John Brott
[email protected]
