GLIDE RATIO Meaning and
Definition
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Glide ratio refers to a numerical measure that defines the efficiency of an aircraft or object in maintaining altitude and covering horizontal distance during unpowered flight or glide. It is an important characteristic used to evaluate the performance and capabilities of gliders, airplanes, and other flying objects.
The glide ratio is primarily determined by the lift and drag forces acting on the object. The ratio is calculated by dividing the distance covered horizontally by the vertical distance descended, during a glide without the use of power or propulsion. In simpler terms, it indicates how far an aircraft can travel forward for each unit of altitude lost.
A higher glide ratio implies better performance and efficiency, as the object can travel a greater horizontal distance for a given descent. For example, if an aircraft has a glide ratio of 10:1, it means that for every 10 units of horizontal distance covered, it descends 1 unit of altitude. Conversely, a lower glide ratio indicates a less efficient glide.
Glide ratio is influenced by various factors, including the aerodynamic design of the object, its weight, wing configuration, and the prevailing atmospheric conditions. Wing shape, aspect ratio, and the coefficient of drag play crucial roles in determining the glide ratio. Pilots and aircraft designers use glide ratio as a key measure in assessing the performance and capability of aircraft, as it helps determine the optimal glide path for emergency landings, endurance flights, and overall flight planning.
Etymology of GLIDE RATIO
The word "glide" derives from the Old English word "glidan", meaning "to move smoothly and quietly". It is related to the Middle Low German word "glidden" and Middle Dutch word "glijden", both having similar meanings. The word "ratio" comes from the Latin word "ratus", which means "reckoned" or "calculated". When combined, "glide ratio" refers to the calculated or measured efficiency of an aircraft's gliding ability.
