The wave drag coefficient (Cw) is a dimensionless quantity used in aerodynamics and hydrodynamics to describe the contribution of wave drag to the total drag experienced by an object moving through a fluid (usually air or water) at high speeds. Wave drag is a significant form of drag that occurs when an object’s speed approaches or exceeds the speed of waves generated in the fluid.Â
- CD,w = Wave drag coefficient (dimensionless)
- Dw = Wave drag force (in Newtons, N)
- q∞ = Freestream dynamic pressure (in N/m^2)
- S = Reference area of the object (in square meters, m²)Â