dwsmith said:Why is this true?
$$
h = rv_{\perp} = r(r\dot{\nu})\Rightarrow\dot{\nu} = \frac{h}{r^2}
$$
Look at the last page http://www.mathhelpboards.com/f49/orbital-mechanics-notes-3682/#post16317 to see a visualization.
chisigma said:If $\displaystyle v_{\perp}$ is the radial speed is $\displaystyle v_{\perp}= r\ \dot{\nu}$ where $\nu$ is the angle in radians...
Kind regards
$\chi$ $\sigma$
The derivative of the flight path angle is the rate of change of the angle of the aircraft's trajectory with respect to time. It represents how quickly the flight path angle is changing at a particular moment.
The derivative of the flight path angle is important because it gives information about the aircraft's vertical speed and rate of climb or descent. It is also used in calculating the aircraft's acceleration and can help in maintaining a desired flight path.
The derivative of the flight path angle is calculated by taking the derivative of the aircraft's altitude with respect to time and dividing it by the derivative of the horizontal distance traveled by the aircraft with respect to time.
The derivative of the flight path angle can be affected by factors such as wind, air density, weight of the aircraft, and engine power. These factors can cause changes in the aircraft's speed and therefore affect the rate of change of the flight path angle.
The derivative of the flight path angle is used in aircraft navigation to maintain a desired flight path and to make adjustments for changing conditions. It is also used in calculating the aircraft's performance and fuel efficiency.