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Golf balls could change the future of car aerodynamics

A new material could help make sports cars even more aerodynamic in the future.


Smorph was developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and its surface texture can be changed from smooth to dimpled.

Researchers used smorph to make a ball (that looks much like a golf ball) and by changing the internal pressure using a pump, the material shrinks creating the pock-marked effect.

The flexible material could potentially be used to create a skin on a vehicle that would improve aerodynamics in the same way that surface imperfections on a golf ball create turbulence and help it move through the air faster.

Though a rough surface doesn't help reduce drag at lower speeds, because the skin can be changed from smooth to dimpled, it could be used to help improve the efficiency and performance of cars at high speeds.

Other applications could potentially include airplanes and tall buildings.

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