Final Blog ever for Physics

Physics of The Perfect Bowling Motion  

The bowling ball

A bowling ball is made from a type of plastic or reactive resin or a combination of these materials. Bowling balls generally have three holes drilled into them; two finger holes and one thumb hole for gripping. For bowling, regular 10 pin bowling balls have a maximum weight of 16 lb (7.2 kg), and a maximum diameter of 8.6 inches (21.8 cm).

The Perfect Motion

The perfect motion for a bowling ball throw is curved so it strikes the pins at an angle. When it strikes the pins at an angle it improves the chances that you get a strike. If the ball follows a curved path, it will be able to strike the pins at a greater angle than a bowling ball that travels in a straight line. Therefore, controlling the degree of curve is essential to making the best possible shot. 

The ball begins rolling with a rotation speed (angular velocity) of w_o and a linear velocity V_o. 

Usually, during the first part of the motion the bowling ball slides along the lane, since its rotational speed does not match with the linear velocity of the ball. But eventually, lane friction stops the ball from sliding, and pure rolling begins. The ball then continues rolling until it hits the pins. 

The ball hits the pins at an angle θ. The greater this angle, the more sloped the impact is and the greater the chance that all the pins will be knocked down. 

 

In a Nutshell

So the greater curve your bowling shot has the greater angle will be when it strikes the pins, and the greater that angle is when it hits the pins the better chance you have a getting a strike. 

Next time you go bowling remember, if you want strikes you need angles.