The lift-dependent drag coefficient () is a component of the total drag coefficient () and represents the drag that is directly proportional to the lift being generated by the aircraft. It is also known as induced drag and is primarily caused by the production of lift.
The formula for calculating the lift-dependent drag coefficient () is as follows:
- is the lift-dependent drag coefficient (dimensionless).
- is the induced drag force acting on the aircraft (in newtons or pounds-force).
- is the air density (in kilograms per cubic meter or slugs per cubic foot).
- is the true airspeed (in meters per second or feet per second).
- is the wing’s reference area (in square meters or square feet).