How Do You Calculate Air Resistance in a Simulation?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating air resistance in the context of a computer simulation of free-falling objects. Participants explore various approaches and considerations related to the drag force and its dependence on different factors.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests a formula and example for calculating air resistance in their simulation.
  • Another participant suggests using the Drag Equation as a common method for computing drag force in free fall scenarios.
  • Some participants note that there is no universal "drag equation" applicable to all situations, indicating variability in how drag can be modeled.
  • A further contribution mentions that the force of wind often varies with the square of the velocity, suggesting this as an approximation for flat surfaces.
  • Data regarding wind resistance for specific applications, such as boats and high-rise buildings, is referenced as potentially useful for understanding air resistance in simulations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the applicability of the Drag Equation, with some asserting its common use while others highlight its limitations and the need for context-specific considerations. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to model air resistance.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not established specific assumptions or conditions under which the Drag Equation is valid, nor have they resolved the mathematical complexities involved in applying it to different scenarios.

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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