The axial force in aerodynamics refers to the component of the aerodynamic force that acts along the axis of an aircraft or an airfoil. Comprising both lift and drag components, it influences the vertical support and resistance encountered by the object. The axial force is crucial for understanding the equilibrium and performance of an aircraft in flight, affecting parameters such as climb rate, descent rate, and overall stability. The formula to calculate axial force as follows:
- Â is the axial force (N)
- is the dynamic pressure in Pascals (Pa) or N/m²
- is the wing area in m²
- is axial force coefficient