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Old 07-29-2004 | 09:59 PM
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From: Stuttgart, GERMANY
Default RE: Induced Drag

The Drag on an object is traditionally defined as the force acting in the direction of the free stream (or opposite the object's the velocity vector if you insist on an earth-fixed reference frame). By this definition, a split rudder would generate primarily Drag and not Lift. This definition makes no distinction as to the utility of the force, only its direction.

Lift is traditionally defined as the force perpendicular to the free stream (or velocity vector). This definition doesn't quite go far enough as there are an infinite number of directions that are perpendicular to the free stream. In order to choose only one direction, the Lift on an object can be further defined as the force that acts perpendicular to the free stream, AND in the symmetry plane of the object. Since most aircraft have gross left-right symmetry (except Rutan designs), this definition is usually unambiguous (the lift force is "up" for an aircraft in upright, wings-level, constant-altitude flight). The force perpendicular to both the lift and drag is traditionally called Side Force. With these definitions, a wing would normally generate Lift and a vertical tail would generate Side Force.

The above definitions are at least somewhat arbitrary, and you could argue that there can be no incorrect definition for Lift or Drag. While that may be true, certain definitions have proven to be more useful than others, and those are the ones accepted by the "community". Personally, I think there is value to honoring conventional definitions. Clear definitions provide a framework for discussion that minimizes the potential for misunderstanding. You need to look no further than this thread to see cases where loose terminology has led to misunderstanding and has stirred up needless emotional debate. If this position makes me elitist, so be it. I don't think you need to be an expert to express yourself with precision, just disciplined.

If your goal is a series of heated and largely meaningless exchanges, go on with your imprecise self (I will be the first to admit that the entertainment value of certain meaningless exchanges should not be overlooked).