Parasite Drag Calculator

Parasite Drag Equation:

\[ D_p = \frac{1}{2} \times \rho \times v^2 \times S \times C_{D_p} \]

Density (ρ):

kg/m³

Velocity (v):

m/s

Reference Area (S):

m²

Drag Coefficient (C_{D_p}):

dimensionless

Parasite Drag (D_p):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Parasite Drag?

Parasite drag is the aerodynamic drag force that opposes an aircraft's motion through the air. It is caused by the friction and pressure differences between the aircraft's surface and the surrounding air. Parasite drag increases with the square of velocity and is a significant factor in aircraft performance calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the parasite drag equation:

\[ D_p = \frac{1}{2} \times \rho \times v^2 \times S \times C_{D_p} \]

Where:

\( D_p \) — Parasite drag (N)
\( \rho \) — Air density (kg/m³)
\( v \) — Velocity (m/s)
\( S \) — Reference area (m²)
\( C_{D_p} \) — Parasite drag coefficient (dimensionless)

Explanation: The equation calculates the drag force resulting from the aircraft's shape and surface characteristics, excluding induced drag from lift production.

3. Importance of Parasite Drag Calculation

Details: Accurate parasite drag calculation is essential for aircraft performance analysis, fuel consumption estimation, and determining maximum speed capabilities. It helps engineers optimize aircraft design for reduced drag and improved efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter air density in kg/m³, velocity in m/s, reference area in m², and parasite drag coefficient (dimensionless). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between parasite drag and induced drag?
A: Parasite drag is caused by the aircraft's form and skin friction, while induced drag results from the production of lift and is associated with wingtip vortices.

Q2: How does air density affect parasite drag?
A: Parasite drag is directly proportional to air density. At higher altitudes where density is lower, parasite drag decreases.

Q3: What is a typical value for parasite drag coefficient?
A: Parasite drag coefficients vary widely depending on aircraft design, but typically range from 0.02 to 0.05 for streamlined aircraft.

Q4: How does velocity affect parasite drag?
A: Parasite drag increases with the square of velocity, meaning doubling speed quadruples parasite drag.

Q5: Can this equation be used for other vehicles?
A: Yes, the same fundamental equation applies to calculating drag for cars, boats, and other objects moving through fluids.