Looking for references on the physics of bowling.

[crossposted to alt.sci.physics and sci.physics]

I want to write a bowling computer simulation, and so I'm interested in
learning about the physics involved in the game. I've tried Google, but most
of the explanations I've found have made unacceptable simplifying
assumptions, such as the ball being of uniform density, or that the ball's
initial state is rolling across the lane.

I haven't played much bowling myself, but from my research, I've
gathered that bowling balls are specifically designed with non-uniform
density (e.g. the core being made of denser material, and the shape of the
core frequently NOT being spherically symmetrical) so as to enhance to
dampen a bowler's natural hook, or curvature of the bowling ball as it
approaches the pin.

I also found that when bowling balls are released, they initially slide
for some distance before the friction between the lane and the ball causes
the ball to start rolling, which allows the bowler to control the point
during the the hook "kicks in".

Are there any resources I can look at for a more realistic (as in, fewer
simplifying assumption) explanation of the physics of bowling?

- Oliver

Oliver Wong wrote:


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