You have two golf balls that differ only in their surfaces. One has dimples, while the other is smooth. Which ball has a greater pressure difference between the leading and trailing edges?
A) The pressure difference is greater for the smooth ball.
B) The pressure difference is greater for the dimpled ball.
C) The pressures are exactly the same.
D) there is no leading or trailing pressures.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The smooth golf ball experiences a greater pressure difference between the leading and trailing edges compared to the dimpled ball. The dimples on a golf ball create turbulence in the air around the ball, which reduces the separation of the flow of air from the ball's surface. This reduction in separation decreases the wake (the area of low pressure behind the ball) and thus reduces the pressure difference between the front and back of the ball. The smooth ball, without these dimples, has a larger wake and a greater pressure difference, leading to more drag.

You Have Two Golf Balls That Differ Only in Their