Drag curve

A drag curve refers to a graphical representation of the relationship between induced drag and parasite drag. Induced drag is the result of wingtip vortices and is proportional to the lift generated by an aircraft. Parasite drag, on the other hand, is the result of the non-lift producing parts of an aircraft, such as the fuselage and engines, and is proportional to the square of the aircraft’s speed.

By plotting induced drag against parasite drag, a drag curve can effectively illustrate the trade-off between the two aspects of drag. The curve typically starts at the origin, where the aircraft is not generating any lift, and increases as the aircraft generates more lift and corresponding induced drag. At higher speeds, the increase in the square of the aircraft’s speed results in an increasing amount of parasite drag, causing the curve to steepen.

Understanding the drag curve is important in determining an aircraft’s performance and efficiency. The goal is to find the minimum amount of drag for a given lift, as this will provide the greatest fuel efficiency and range. Through the use of wing design, engine placement, and other factors, engineers can work to optimize an aircraft’s drag curve for its intended purpose.