Are Mathematicians/Physicists really good at pool/snooker?

[tomharding]

Basic question really, if you were a mathematician or a physicist of the highest caliber, would you be really good at pool, snooker, or any pub game at that matter?

I mean, you could probably calculate the exact angle and force to put on a cueball in order to get a near perfect shot.

On the flip side however, like a lot of games, tactics would be a main part of it all.

Still though, you gotta wonder!

[wildwood]

In any pub game that requires a good memory, yes they would have an advantage. In games of skill I really don't think they would be any better than the average Joe Blog.

On the snooker table one of the most important skills is the spot where the cue ball is hit, not only ensuring that the ball aimed for goes in the pocket but also the position the cueball ends up at for the next shot . It is no use making a brilliant shot but getting the cueball in an awkward position for the next shot.

Skill comes from experience and dexterity, not just intelligence.

[Loosehead]

No because knowing where to hit the object ball is not the difficult part, anyone can figure that out visually in an instant. The problem is having the hand eye coordination to actullay hit it there!

[Teddio]

Absolutely not. I know a snooker-playing, ace professional mathematician and, by his own admission, he's useless at snooker and carpet bowls. Ronnie O'Sullivan, by comparison, doesn't even have A-level Maths or Physics!

[Physicsgirl]

Depends what type of mathematician/physicist! Some never go near pubs and have probably never held a cue. Others have finely honed potting ability. Suppose it helps, but nothing beats experience in this matter!