- #1
sid_galt
- 503
- 1
Which book would you recommend for introduction to aerodynamics? One which is mathematically rigorous as well as comprehensive?
Book for introduction in aerodynamics
- Thread starter sid_galt
- Start date
-
- Tags
- Aerodynamics Book Introduction
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around recommendations for introductory books on aerodynamics, focusing on texts that are mathematically rigorous and comprehensive. Participants explore the relationship between fluid mechanics and aerodynamics, suggesting that a solid understanding of fluid mechanics is essential for studying aerodynamics effectively.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant questions the feasibility of finding a single comprehensive book on aerodynamics, suggesting that it encompasses various fluid mechanics theories.
- Another participant asks for recommendations on fluid mechanics books, indicating a desire to build foundational knowledge before tackling aerodynamics.
- Fundamentals of Aerodynamics by John Anderson is praised as an excellent introductory text, though one participant notes it may be too math-heavy for some readers.
- Introduction to Flight by John Anderson is suggested as a more accessible alternative that covers basic aerodynamics and related topics like aircraft design.
- A participant shares personal experiences with John Anderson as a professor, describing him as friendly and supportive, while also humorously questioning his character.
- Model Aeroplane Aerodynamics by Martin Simmons is recommended as an easy-to-understand book that includes mathematical performance analysis.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express varying opinions on the best introductory texts for aerodynamics, with no consensus on a single book. There is agreement on the importance of fluid mechanics knowledge, but differing views on specific book recommendations.
Contextual Notes
Some participants note the potential difficulty of certain texts based on individual skill levels, indicating that recommendations may depend on prior knowledge and mathematical comfort.
Who May Find This Useful
Readers interested in aerodynamics, fluid mechanics, and those seeking foundational texts for study in these areas may find this discussion beneficial.
- #2
Clausius2
Science Advisor
Gold Member
- 1,433
- 7
sid_galt said:
Maybe Aerodynamics is a too wide field. I doubt there is only one book which treats it accurately in one volume only. Aerodynamics is a mix of several fluid mechanics theories. So that, the first thing you should do is to know very well Fluid Mech: you will be indirectly learning Aerodynamics.
- #3
sid_galt
- 503
- 1
Could you then recommend me some good fluid mechanics books?
And how is Fundamentals of Aerodynamics by John Anderson?
And how is Fundamentals of Aerodynamics by John Anderson?
- #4
enigma
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Gold Member
- 1,739
- 20
sid_galt said:
Marvelous.
IMO the best introductory text in aerodynamics.
Depending on your current skill level, if that book is a little too math-heavy, I'd suggest you check out "Introduction to Flight" by the same author. It covers most of the basics of aerodynamics and also covers topics which delve into the actual design of aircraft (control surfaces, engine performance, maneuvers, etc.) and even a little bit into astrodynamics.
I still reference both from time to time, although the Intro to Flight book mostly gets referenced for the standard atmosphere tables which are included in the appendix... a marvelous resource to have.
And no, I'm not just saying all that because he taught my introduction to aerodynamics course...
Last edited:
- #5
Clausius2
Science Advisor
Gold Member
- 1,433
- 7
enigma said:
I have the CFD book of Anderson, and I was wondering if you had him as professor because I read he is /was at Maryland U. But now you have confirmed it.
How is he?. Is he the typical strange man?. Is he a human being?. Or is he connected to some machine which provides him with additional neurons?.
- #6
enigma
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Gold Member
- 1,739
- 20
He's a Professor Emeritus here, and he's curator of aerodynamics at the Smithsonian (or some other similar prestigious title).
In class he seems like a friendly grandfather. He's as concerned about your grade as you are, it seems. A great guy, and a wonderful professor.
In class he seems like a friendly grandfather. He's as concerned about your grade as you are, it seems. A great guy, and a wonderful professor.
- #7
ken
- 51
- 0
Hi
Model Aeroplane Aerodymanics by Martin Simmons.
Very easy to understand and full of math based performance analasys.
Ken
Model Aeroplane Aerodymanics by Martin Simmons.
Very easy to understand and full of math based performance analasys.
Ken