aerodynamics

[air-oh-dahy-nam-iks] /ˌɛər oʊ daɪˈnæm ɪks/
noun, (used with a singular verb)
1.
the branch of mechanics that deals with the motion of air and other gases and with the effects of such motion on bodies in the medium.
Compare aerostatics (def 1).
Origin
1830-40; aero- + dynamics
Related forms
aerodynamic, aerodynamical, adjective
aerodynamically, adverb
Examples from the web for aerodynamics
  • Finally, the large size of the crest may indicate that it played a part in aerodynamics.
  • The author needs to educate himself on the concept of aerodynamics.
  • But when he looked at the scientific literature he found that the aerodynamics of their fins had not been fully explored.
  • Not only can a coating of ice add significant weight to a plane, but it can also change the aerodynamics of the plane's airfoil.
  • The problem with looking to bats for inspiration is that scientists are only starting to figure out bat aerodynamics.
  • If you can't see that evolution is about as established a theory as say, gravitation or aerodynamics, then you can't see it.
  • In the ruthless world of auto racing, aerodynamics can make the difference between stunning victory and fiery oblivion.
  • The team focused much of its attention on maximizing aerodynamics and cutting weight.
  • Larger aircraft achieve stability through aerodynamics.
  • And besides, the principles of aerodynamics and radar-deflection know no political borders.
British Dictionary definitions for aerodynamics

aerodynamics

/ˌɛərəʊdaɪˈnæmɪks/
noun
1.
(functioning as sing) the study of the dynamics of gases, esp of the forces acting on a body passing through air Compare aerostatics (sense 1)
Derived Forms
aerodynamic, adjective
aerodynamically, adverb
aerodynamicist, noun
Word Origin and History for aerodynamics
n.

1837, from aero- "air" + dynamics.

aerodynamics in Science
aerodynamics
  (âr'ō-dī-nām'ĭks)   
The study of the movement of air and other gases. Aerodynamics includes the study of the interactions of air with moving objects, such as airplanes, and of the effects of moving air on stationary objects, such as buildings.

Our Living Language  : The two primary forces in aerodynamics are lift and drag. Lift refers to (usually upward) forces perpendicular to the direction of motion of an object traveling through the air. For example, airplane wings are designed so that their movement through the air creates an area of low pressure above the wing and an area of high pressure beneath it; the pressure difference produces the lift needed for flight. This effect is typical of airfoil design. Drag forces are parallel and opposite to the object's direction of motion and are caused largely by friction. Large wings can create a significant amount of lift, but they do so with the expense of generating a great deal of drag. Spoilers that are extended on airplane wings upon the vehicle's landing exploit this tradeoff by making the wings capable of high lift even at low speeds; low landing speeds then still provide enough lift for a gentle touchdown. Aeronautical engineers need to take into account such factors as the speed and altitude at which their designs will fly (lower air pressures at high altitudes reduce both lift and drag) in order to optimally balance lift and drag in varying conditions.
aerodynamics in Culture

aerodynamics definition


The branch of science devoted to the study of the flow of gases around solid objects. It is especially important in the design of cars and airplanes, which move through the air.

Note: A vehicle that has been built to minimize friction with the air is said to be aerodynamically designed.