In flight mechanics and aerodynamics, the coefficient of lift-induced drag (CDi) is a dimensionless parameter that quantifies the drag produced as a result of generating lift. It’s an important concept in the analysis of an aircraft’s performance and efficiency. When an aircraft generates lift, it also creates vortices at the wingtips due to pressure differences between the upper and lower surfaces of the wings. These vortices result in a swirling motion of the air behind the wing, which leads to the generation of induced drag.
- CDi: Coefficient of lift-induced drag, which is a measure of the drag caused by the generation of lift.
- Cl: Coefficient of lift, representing the efficiency of the wing or airfoil in generating lift.
- π: Pi, a mathematical constant approximately equal to 3.14159.
- A: Aspect ratio
- δ: Induced drag factor, which accounts for factors such as wing taper and aspect ratio.