How Do You Calculate Air Resistance in a Simulation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating air resistance in simulations of free-falling objects. The primary tool mentioned is the Drag Equation, which is essential for determining the drag force acting on an object in motion through a fluid. The conversation highlights that the drag force typically varies with the square of the velocity, particularly for flat surfaces. Additionally, it references the use of empirical data for wind resistance in various applications, such as boat windage and high-rise building design.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Drag Equation
  • Basic knowledge of physics related to motion and forces
  • Familiarity with fluid dynamics principles
  • Experience with computer simulations in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Drag Equation in detail, including its variables and applications
  • Explore fluid dynamics concepts relevant to air resistance
  • Investigate empirical data sources for wind resistance calculations
  • Learn about simulation techniques for modeling forces in physics
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Physics students, simulation developers, engineers working on aerodynamics, and anyone interested in modeling the effects of air resistance in computational simulations.

Crack3n
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Hi, I am currently working on a computer simulation of free falling objects with air resistance..and I am having problems computing for air resistance..can you give me the formula on how to compute it and an example please?..thank you :))
 
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Crack3n said:
Hi, I am currently working on a computer simulation of free falling objects with air resistance..and I am having problems computing for air resistance..can you give me the formula on how to compute it and an example please?..thank you :))
Usually for free fall problems one would use the Drag Equation (see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drag_equation" ) to compute the drag force acting on the falling object.
 
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Although in general, there is no "drag equation" that applies to everything.
 
I have no idea the level of sophistication you desire, but the force of wind typically varies as the square of the (wind) velocity as an approximation for flat surfaces.

I have seen some chart data regarding flat areas (boat windage) and wind resistance for varying wind speeds used for calculating the force on a boat anchor. Such data must also be available for wind stress design on high rise buildings.
 

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