Module 8 – Basic Aerodynamics
8.1 Physics of the Atmosphere
International Standard Atmosphere (ISA), application to aerodynamics.
2.2 Aerodynamics
Airflow around a body;
Boundary layer, laminar and turbulent flow, free stream flow, relative airflow, upwash and downwash, vortices, stagnation;
The terms: camber, chord, mean aerodynamic chord, profile (parasite) drag, induced drag, centre of pressure, angle of attack,
wash in and wash out, fineness ratio, wing shape and aspect ratio;
Thrust, Weight, Aerodynamic Resultant;
Generation of Lift and Drag: Angle of Attack, Lift coefficient, Drag coefficient, polar curve, stall;
Aerofoil contamination including ice, snow, frost.
8.2 Theory of Flight
Relationship between lift, weight, thrust and drag;
Glide ratio;
Steady state flights, performance;
Theory of the turn;
Influence of load factor: stall, flight envelope and structural limitations;
Lift augmentation.
8.3 Flight Stability and Dynamics
Longitudinal, lateral and directional stability (active and passive).
Glide ratio; Steady state flights, performance;
Theory of the turn; Influence of load factor: stall, flight envelope and structural limitations;
Lift augmentation.
8.4 Flight Stability and Dynamics
Longitudinal, lateral and directional stability (active and passive).
