Formula for Paper Airplane Flight?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the physics of paper airplane flight, specifically regarding the equations that govern its motion as simulated in the Shockwave applet. Participants highlight that when the elevators are set to zero, the airplane behaves like a typical projectile, indicating a parabolic trajectory. The conversation emphasizes the importance of adjusting the wings for lift, as a mechanically perfect paper airplane with zero attack angle does not generate lift. The need for equations that account for lift during flight loops is also mentioned, suggesting a deeper exploration of aerodynamics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of projectile motion and parabolic trajectories
  • Familiarity with aerodynamics concepts, specifically lift and drag
  • Knowledge of the Shockwave applet and its functionality
  • Experience with basic physics equations related to motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the equations of motion for objects in flight, focusing on lift and drag forces
  • Explore the principles of aerodynamics as they apply to paper airplanes
  • Investigate the functionality and physics behind the Shockwave applet for simulating flight
  • Learn about the effects of angle of attack on lift generation in aircraft
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace enthusiasts, physics students, educators in aerodynamics, and anyone interested in the mechanics of paper airplane flight.

neogeek
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Hey first time poster long time reader, I have a question on the physics behind this shockwave applet. Are there a series or set of equations that could approximate something that is done in this applet?

http://www.workman.com/etcetera/games/fliersclub/

I don't think air resistance is a factor in this, however I do know that when the elevators are set to 0, the plane behaves like a typical projectile motion simulation.

This has been bugging me for quite some time, as I can't understand what equations they would be using to simulate such a thing.

Anway's any comments are greatly appreciated.

Thanks for your help
 
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Well, in a mechanically perfect paper airplane, the wings have zero attack angle. So it will behave as if it has no lift. You've got to adjust it so that it lifts.
 
So that's why the airplane was acting like a projectile. would there be any equations to back up what is going on when there is lift involved with the loops?

Thanks for your help
 
neogeek said:
So that's why the airplane was acting like a projectile. would there be any equations to back up what is going on when there is lift involved with the loops?

Thanks for your help
Oh, I have no idea. I didn't even get the Shockwave app to run.

But I have a question for you: When you say projectile path, I assume you mean ballistic - i.e. the path a normal, thrown object would follow. But a ballistic path is simply a parabolic path.

Are you sure that a paper airplane isn't following a parabolic path? Granted, it may be a long gentle one because it has lift, but does the Shockwave movie accurately portray glide distance vs. altitude?

I wonder what the path of a paper airplane would look like if we measured it. Something tells me that the farther it travels, the more its pitch will be downward - which is parabolic (even if it's not ballistic).
 
yay, fun
thanks for sharing that
I don't know the answer to your question, but check out
angle=90 thrust=90 elevator=16
my paper airplanes never do that =)
 

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