In aerodynamics, “drag” refers to the aerodynamic force that opposes an object’s motion through a fluid, typically air. It acts parallel to the direction of the airflow and is a result of the resistance encountered by the object as it moves through the fluid medium. Drag is an important concept in aviation and other fields where the interaction between objects and a fluid (usually air) is a key consideration.
- Drag (D): Drag
- N: Normal force
- A: Axial force
- 𝛼: Angle between drag and normal force
- 𝛼: Angle between drag and axial force