My project

[SDalton01]

Project: Tee time https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... p014.shtml

In this project i will be testing how the tee height effects how far your drive goes in golf. I know hoe i will do my expirement, but i do not know how i can have a consistant golf shot. Should i make a rig? or just use the same person every time? i also am not sure what my control should be. I am grateful for any help i recieve.

[deleted-2131]

SDalton01,

Determining the variables that need to be controlled and how to control them is always a challenge. The purpose of controlling variables is to make sure that the only difference between the different trials that you run is the independent variable. In terms of getting a consistent golf shot, I think that either of the suggestions you made would be workable. Having the same person doing the shot each time minimizes the variability in the shot. The variability would be due to that person's variability. Using a rig would do the same thing. There would still be variability in the shot, but the variability would be due to the variation in the rig. Controls could include using the the same golf club each time and using the same green. But this isn't a comprehensive list. Try thinking of other things that you need to keep the same. Post back if you have more questions.

Good luck on the project!

[MelissaB]

Just to add to what Terik said, one way to minimize variation if you use the same person--which would probably be easier than building a rig--is to have that same person make multiple shots at each height. That way, you can get an average that will control for some of the variation between shots. I would suggest about ~10 shots at each height, if you decide to go this route. You are right, this is a very important variable to consider in your project!

[SDalton01]

thanks for all the suggestions! these help very much. i have decided to do the project and i will tell you how i do or if i come across any more problems

[deleted-71738]

Being a golfer myself, albeit a very poor one, I'll add my 2 cents. If I hit 30 golf balls off a tee at one height and another 30 off a tee at a different height, you probably wouldn't see much difference. All 60 golf balls would be all over the place! The golf swing is really, really, really complex and really, really, difficult for a person to replicate with much accuracy. So if you really have a choice of using a person or a rig, a rig will give you much more repeatable results.

The United States Golf Association used to use a standardized rig to ensure clubs and balls met their golf standards. (See http://www.leaderboard.com/GLOSSARY_IRONBYRON) You *might* be able to find similar rigs to use if you ask at golf shops in your area.

If you can't find a rig, then it comes down to build one or use a person. Even the most basic rig is still going to be more repeatable than most people. If you do decide to go the people route, your best results will be from a good golfer. The better they are, the more repeatable their swing and the more consistant they hit each ball.

Good luck with your project. I can't wait to here if I should be raising or lowering my tee when I play!

Mike