aerodynamic forces

aerodynamic forces

aerodynamic forcesThe forces on a body moving through a gaseous medium. In an aircraft, the thrust acts forward, drag acts rearward, and lift acts vertically upward. The weight of an aircraft produces a force that acts vertically downward. The tailplane also produces a net downward force that balances the weight around the center of gravity to provide longitudinal stability. The aerodynamic forces around a body moving through a gaseous medium are assumed to be proportional to the density of the medium (ρ), square of speed (V2), characteristics of the dimensions of the body (normally L2 or S2), and Reynolds number raised to power n (Rn). See also Reynolds number.