What is bifurcation in golf?

In golf, bifurcation refers to a situation where a golf ball lands on a fairway or green, but then splits into two or more pieces. This is a rare occurrence, but it can happen when a ball is struck with extreme force, causing it to break apart.

Causes of Bifurcation

The most common cause of bifurcation is a golf ball being struck with excessive force. This can occur when a golfer hits the ball off the tee, or when they attempt to hit a long shot from the fairway. The impact can cause the ball to compress beyond its elastic limit, resulting in the ball splitting.

Other factors that can contribute to bifurcation include:

• The type of golf ball: Some golf balls are more prone to bifurcation than others. For example, older golf balls that are made with softer materials are more likely to break apart.
• The condition of the golf ball: A golf ball that is damaged or has been exposed to extreme temperatures may be more likely to bifurcate.
• The type of club used: A club with a large clubface can generate more force when it hits the ball, increasing the risk of bifurcation.

Rules of Golf Regarding Bifurcation

According to the Rules of Golf, if a golf ball bifurcates, the player must play the larger piece of the ball. If the pieces are of equal size, the player can choose to play either one. The smaller pieces are considered out of play.

If a player hits a ball that bifurcates, and the larger piece comes to rest in a hazard, the player has the option of dropping the larger piece outside the hazard. They must drop the ball within two club lengths of the point where the larger piece came to rest, and the ball must be dropped in a spot that is as close as possible to the original position of the larger piece.

Conclusion

Bifurcation is a rare occurrence in golf, but it can happen. If a player's ball bifurcates, they must play the larger piece according to the Rules of Golf. It is important to note that the smaller pieces are considered out of play. While it is not a common occurrence, it is important to be aware of the rules regarding bifurcation in case it happens.