The pitching moment in aerodynamics refers to the rotational force or torque around the lateral axis of an aircraft. This moment is generated by variations in lift distribution between the aircraft’s nose and tail, often influenced by changes in angle of attack or elevator deflection. The pitching moment affects the aircraft’s rotation around its lateral axis, leading to a pitching motion. The formula to calculate pitching moment as follows:
where:
- is the pitching moment (Nm),
- is the dynamic pressure (Pa),
- is the reference area (m²),
- is the characteristic length (m),
- is the pitching moment coefficient (dimensionless).