Drag

Drag refers to the aerodynamic force that acts on an aircraft, or any moving object, as it moves through the air. The force of drag runs parallel but opposite to the direction of the aircraft’s motion. It is caused by the air’s resistance to the forward movement of the aircraft.

There are two main types of drag: induced drag and parasite drag. Induced drag is produced by the creation of lift, which occurs as a result of the pressure difference between the top and bottom surfaces of the wing. Parasite drag is caused by the frictional resistance that arises from the movement of the aircraft through the air. The sum of these two components is known as net aerodynamic drag.

Drag acts in the same plane as the relative wind that strikes an airfoil, but in the opposite direction. This force opposes the forward motion of the aircraft, making it more difficult to maintain speed and altitude. Pilots must take drag into account when calculating fuel consumption, as it can have a significant impact on the aircraft’s overall efficiency.

In summary, drag is an important concept in aviation, and a thorough understanding of its effects is essential for pilots and aircraft designers. By minimizing drag, pilots can increase the range and efficiency of their aircraft, while maintaining optimal performance in flight.