Fluid Mechanics

What is air resistance ?

Force that opposes the motion of a body traveling trough air

What is drag ?

Resistance in water is referred to as drag. Depends on the environment

What factors affect drag and air resistance ?

Velocity
Front cross sectional area
Streamline
Surface characteristics

How does velocity affect resistance ?

Greater the velocity results in greater resistance

How does front cross sectional ares affect resistance ?

Larger the cross sectional area the greater the air resistance

How does streamline affect resistance ?

More streamline and aerodynamic the shape in motion the lower the effect of resistance

How does surface characteristics affect resistance ?

Smoother the surface area the lower the resistance

How does the downhill skier minimise resistance ?

Minimise cross sectional area by adopting low crouched position during straight / jumps
Wear tear drop helmets

How does a track cycler minimise resistance ?

Aerodynamic position : shoulders forward