Glide Ratio: Understanding Aircraft Gliding Efficiency
Introduction The Glide Ratio is a crucial aerodynamic concept that determines how efficiently an aircraft can glide without engine power. It represents the distance an aircraft can travel forward for every unit of altitude it loses. A higher glide ratio means better gliding efficiency, which is vital for fuel-saving, emergency landings, and overall flight performance. This detailed illustration visually represents the glide ratio in aviation, showcasing how an aircraft descends at a specific angle with minimal power. It highlights the relationship between lift, drag, and gravity in determining how far an aircraft can travel horizontally while losing altitude. What is Glide Ratio? The glide ratio (L/D ratio) is the ratio of lift to drag during a glide. It is calculated as: Glide Ratio = Horizontal Distance Travelled Vertical Altitude Lost \text{Glide Ratio} = \frac{\text{Horizontal Distance Travelled}}{\text{Vertical Altitude Lost}} Glide Ratio = Vertical...