In flight mechanics, the “coefficient of normal force,” often denoted as Cn or Cne, represents a dimensionless parameter used to describe the aerodynamic forces related to an aircraft’s stability and control in the vertical or normal direction. It provides information about how the aircraft responds to changes in angle of attack, sideslip angle, and other flight conditions.
- Cn: Coefficient of normal force (sometimes also denoted as Cne for specific conditions).
- N: The normal or vertical aerodynamic force acting on the aircraft (e.g., lift or load factor).
- ρ: Air density (rho), representing the mass of air per unit volume.
- V: The velocity of the aircraft relative to the air (airspeed).
- S: The reference wing area used for calculating aerodynamic forces.