Golf’s Greatest Mystery Finally Solved by Physicists
Summary
A new study by physicists explains why golf balls sometimes seem to go into the hole but then pop out, a phenomenon known as "lip-out." The study identifies two types of lip-outs and reveals that small changes in speed, line, and spin can significantly affect whether the ball stays in the hole. This discovery explains why similar-looking putts can have very different outcomes.Key Facts
- The study was published in the journal Royal Society Open Science.
- Researchers from the University of Bristol and Széchenyi István University conducted the study.
- They identified two types of lip-outs: "Rim Lip-out" and "Hole Lip-out."
- The "Rim Lip-out" occurs when the ball rides on the cup's edge.
- The "Hole Lip-out" happens when the ball enters the cup but spins out.
- The study used a rolling model to understand the mechanics involved.
- Speed, line, and spin of the ball are key factors in whether it stays in the hole.
- High speeds and off-center approaches lead to more rim lip-outs.
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