Physicists Develop Mathematical Model to Predict Bowling Ball Trajectories

2025-04-16
Physicists Develop Mathematical Model to Predict Bowling Ball Trajectories

With over 45 million bowling fans in the US, improving strike percentage is a constant pursuit. A team of physicists, including three skilled bowlers and a Team England coach, has developed a mathematical model to predict bowling ball trajectories. The model accounts for lane oil composition and patterns, ball asymmetries, and player variability, offering a more nuanced approach than previous statistical analyses. The complexity stems from numerous variables influencing the ball's path, such as inconsistent oil application on lanes. This research provides a new perspective for enhancing bowling performance by leveraging physics and mathematics.