The word Aerodynamics comes from two Greek words:

•Aerios – concerning the air

•Dynamis – which means force

• AerodynamicsAerodynamics – the study of Forces on – the study of Forces on a body caused by a a body caused by a

flow (usually flow (usually air).air).

There are 2 types of aerodynamics:

1.) External Aerodynamics – force of flow effects the body externally

2.) Internal Aerodynamics – force of flow effects the body internally

There are three conservation laws used to derive formulas and predictions about aerodynamics:

•Conservation of mass

•Conservation of Energy

•Conservation of momentum

Only 15% of a vehicle’s energy output is actually pushing the car down the road.

25% is lost in tire rolling resistance.

An astonishing 60% of the car’s total energy output is lost through air resistance

Vehicle's Energy Output

60%15%

25%Air Resistance(60%)

Efficient Energy(15%)

Rolling Resistance(25%)

Scientists use wind tunnel experimentation to predict and observe patterns in aerodynamics. (a tunnel with

a large fan at one end to create a flow)

Birds are naturally aerodynamic. All of their features are designed to produce flight.

In racing, cars can follow their opponents closely (in their drafting zone) and use it to slingshot past them. The Drafting zone is created by the outwardly forced air by the leading car. The result is en empty space behind the car like a vacuum.

Through studying aerodynamics, the Through studying aerodynamics, the advancement of aircraft in the past 75 years has advancement of aircraft in the past 75 years has

been remarkable.been remarkable.