The Physics of Golf

Index

• Aims• Methodology• Results• Conclusion

What is Golf

Aim

• Plot the path of the golf ball• Consider effects of:– Air resistance– Wind– Spin of golf ball

Methodology

• Use Newtonian mechanics• Use Euler Method• Consider special cases, move towards generalVelocity

Lift

Drag

Weight

Wind

Observed Trajectory of a Golf Ball

Average Ranges

• 3-IRON : 155-174m• 4-IRON : 146-163m• 5-IRON : 137-155m• 6-IRON : 128-146m

• 7-IRON : 119-137m• 8-IRON : 110-128m• 9-IRON : 101-119m

1st Special Case

• No wind, no rotation

2nd Special Case

• 1st Special Case, with headwind/tailwind

2D General Case

• 2st Special Case, with a rotating golf ball

Observed Trajectory of a Golf Ball

Average Ranges

• 3-IRON : 155-174m• 4-IRON : 146-163m• 5-IRON : 137-155m• 6-IRON : 128-146m

• 7-IRON : 119-137m• 8-IRON : 110-128m• 9-IRON : 101-119m

3D Case

Limitations in Practice

• Constants may not be constants at all• Determining constants and initial conditions