Delta wing vs standard plane (Paper model)

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SUMMARY

Delta wing paper airplanes outperform standard paper models, such as those resembling a Boeing 747, due to their structural stiffness and efficient wing area. The design of standard paper airplanes often leads to distortion during launch, resulting in increased drag and unstable flight. In contrast, the paper dart's aerodynamic shape allows for a better glide ratio and effective use of the paper sheet, contributing to superior flight performance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic aerodynamics principles
  • Familiarity with paper airplane design techniques
  • Knowledge of lift and drag concepts
  • Experience in constructing paper models
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the aerodynamic properties of delta wing designs
  • Explore advanced paper airplane construction techniques for improved performance
  • Learn about the physics of lift and drag in model aircraft
  • Experiment with different paper types and weights for optimal flight
USEFUL FOR

Aerodynamics enthusiasts, hobbyists in paper modeling, educators teaching physics concepts, and anyone interested in optimizing paper airplane performance.

Frenemy90210
I made a few paper airplanes. I noticed that the common paper airplane (shown below)
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/v29M7Oa1l-A/hqdefault.jpg
flies much further/better than paper planes that look like standard 747s. Any know why ?
I expected 747 like plane to be very efficient at generating the lift and hence fly better.
 
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Show us a picture of your paper plane that looks like a 747?

Generally paper planes that look like real planes aren't as stiff as a paper dart so you can't put as much force into the launch. They tend to distort more causing drag or unstable flight.

The standard paper dart also makes quite efficient use of a sheet of paper - what I mean is that the wing area is typically larger than it would be if you made it look like a 747.
 
CWatters said:
Show us a picture of your paper plane that looks like a 747?
I don't have a pic with me. But it was a crude version of this : https://in.pinterest.com/pin/39899146671176394/
Generally paper planes that look like real planes aren't as stiff as a paper dart so you can't put as much force into the launch. They tend to distort more causing drag or unstable flight.

The standard paper dart also makes quite efficient use of a sheet of paper - what I mean is that the wing area is typically larger than it would be if you made it look like a 747.
This is why I used to think that Paper darts will have better glide ratio than the other one. Also I suspect "747 like" planes have huge drag compared to Delta paper dart since 747 like models just used to fall like a rock unlike smooth gliding paper wing.
 

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