Why do golf balls have dimples?
The dimples reduce drag allowing the ball to travel faster for a longer time- and thus farther. The dimples reduce drag because the fast-moving air tends to remain closer to the dimpled surface than it would on a smooth surface. Basically this reduces the eddies and the wake effect.
Consider this interesting fact. The force required to hit a dimpled golf ball 300 yards would drive a smooth ball only 70 yards.
Source: The Handy Science Answer Book. Image source: Mech 2262.
Categories: Physics Tags: air drag, golf, wind resistance