FoxTrot Classics by Bill Amend for October 05, 2012

Don’t drink and derive!

If it was that easy …

I only got past basic algebra. Math isn’t my strong point. I like science though. I used a chart or table and trial and error with the little trebuchet. But I’ll ask do those equations account for rotation on the ball? That will have a big effect on its trajectory. I’m assuming not, if computing wind resistance requires “perfect” wind conditions. But yes. Computing the ballistics and actually striking the ball exactly right are two different things. Amazing that you could shoot that well, Jason.

golf…another form of self abuse.

Good luck with that, Roger.

Whatever you do, Roger, don’t try the math in “The Golf Machine”. Golf pros give it to engineers to drive them crazy with computations.

Jason’s words are so scrunched, they must have been an afterthought on Bill Amend’s part.

In real life as opposed to an idealized textbook problem, during the approximate parabolic flight of the ball, gravity will act straight down and is constant. Air resistance will act in the opposite direction to the velocity and will vary with velocity (faster —> more, slower —> less but the actual equation can be quite complicated often related to higher powers of the velocity than v^1). The force will be the vector sum of Fg and Fa. Add spin and Bernoulli’s forces come into play. With backspin, there will be less air pressure under neath the ball than on top of the ball giving a slight upward force which reduces the effect of gravity slightly – but remember, spin will be slowing down.Can you see why without idealizations and approximations, the vast majority of significant problems in physics and engineering cannot be solved. The best solution for a golfer, Practice, Practice, Practice !!Because computer can quickly calculate iterations and successive approximations, we can land the Curiosity rover on Mars. GO Physics !! GO Math !!

Don’t forget to throw in humidity; that affects the air density. Also I’m sure the age of the ball will come into play? Old balls don’t travel as far.

Yeah, if only it was that easy, every math and physics nerd would be FANTASTIC at most all sports! Now if you got a launching device that was hooked up to a computer and you could adjust the angle and force, any math/physics nerd would be able to get on the green in 1-2 shots on virtually any hole (depending on the max force of the device and obstacles in the way).

Are you supposed to yell “fore” before or after you hit the ball?

Looks like Jason discovered True Swing.

Personally, in terms of math, all I know is that 2 + 2 = 22. :)

I’ve said it before: My golf game bears a lot of resemblance to my vacations: On the beach or in the water.