One of my students asked a question I didn't really have an answer for since I'm not an athlete in terms of most organized sports.

Her question was why are softballs so big if basketballs for women are so small?

I discovered that women's basketballs are smaller for the small hands. I also found out that the rules for women's basketball are different than the ones for men by just a bit. Not sure on the specifics, though.

The softball question is a little harder.

I found that men play softball, but mostly it's a women's sport. I found it described as a sport for "soft" people. I also found out that the way a softball is pitched is different than how a baseball is pitched.

I'm guessing that softballs are bigger because they're easier for the women to work with somehow -- easier to hit? Though you'd think they'd need more force than a baseball to go as far. Easier to throw? Well, the underhand pitch helps, I'm sure.

So, does anyone have any answers as to why softballs are so big? Why do women tend to play softball? What is it about softball that makes it an easier sport for women?