Dents in a golf ball?

Question

What's their purpose?

Answer 1

mostly aerodynamics but it does not rely matter

Answer 2

Aeorodynamics.  This keeps the ball moving along a relatively straight line (when struck properly) and it also keeps the ball from "skidding" once it hits the ground.

Answer 3

The dents are called "dimples."

This is similar to another question asked a few days ago. Here was my answer:

There are generally 300 to 450 dimples on a golf ball, though the Dimplit golf ball had 1070 (maximum number ever so far).

Golf ball dimples exist to help regulate the air flow over the surface of the golf ball to help produce a consistent ball flight. The create a small amount of turbulence that clings to the surface of the golf ball and allows the ball to fly through the air with less resistance.

A smaller number of dimples (which, of course, are larger) seem to create more lift, for a higher ball flight, while a higher number of smaller dimples create a more penetrating ball flight.

Completely smooth golf balls tend to fly like a knuckleball, and it's estimated that today's golf balls fly about twice as far as a comparable ball with no dimples.

By the way, dimples have nothing to do with putting. In fact, they can be shown to cause a slight decrease in putting accuracy. The Caesar golf ball is completely smooth to help with putting, but readily admits to losing distance compared to a dimpled golf ball.

Answer 4

Aerodynamics is the reason. A ball without dimples would not go far, The second answer goes into the technicalities. Read them.

Answer 5

not really a purpose at all

Answer 6

Dimples are all about drag and lift. Much as the shape of an airplane wing has to do with drag and lift. The concave shape of the dimple is similar to that of an airplane wing. It will help keep it in the air longer and thus giving it more distance.