The drag coefficient (CD) is a dimensionless quantity used in aerodynamics to characterize the aerodynamic drag of an object, such as an airfoil, vehicle, or structure, as it moves through a fluid, typically air. The drag coefficient provides a measure of how aerodynamically streamlined or resistant an object is to the fluid flow. The drag coefficient takes into account various factors that contribute to drag, such as pressure distribution, frictional effects, and the object’s shape. It allows engineers and researchers to compare the drag characteristics of different objects and to predict the amount of drag a specific object will experience under various conditions.
- cl: Coefficient of lift
- cn: Normal Force Coefficient
- ca: Axial Force Coefficient
- 𝛼: Angle between drag coefficient and normal force coefficient
- 𝛼: Angle between grad coefficient and axial force coefficient