The Physics of Flight provides a comprehensive explanatory reference on the basic physics of flight with a clear presentation of the underlying mathematics. It presents a momentum-based explanation of lift making no use of Bernoulli’s theorem. Misconceptions are disproved, such as identifying centrifugal force experienced in an airplane undergoing maneuvers as a fictitious force, and not attributing weightlessness during airplane pitch over or experienced in an airplane performing a parabolic flight path to the effects of free fall. This book places particular emphasis on Newton’s second law of motion to explain the effects of forces acting on an airplane, the mechanism of lift, and the principles of propulsion. This book is intended for undergraduate aviation and aerospace students taking courses in Flight Dynamics, Introduction to Flight, and Physics of Flight.

Coverage of fundamental fluid dynamics includes practical and theoretical examinations of aeronautical engineering, stability, imcompressible fluids, and wing design

This book presents flight mechanics of aircraft, spacecraft, and rockets to technical and non-technical readers in simple terms and based purely on physical principles. Adapting an accessible and lucid writing style, the book retains the scientific authority and conceptual substance of an engineering textbook without requiring a background in physics or engineering mathematics. Professor Tewari explains relevant physical principles of flight by straightforward examples and meticulous diagrams and figures. Important aspects of both atmospheric and space flight mechanics are covered, including performance, stability and control, aeroelasticity, orbital mechanics, and altitude control. The book describes airplanes, gliders, rotary wing and flapping wing flight vehicles, rockets, and spacecraft and visualizes the essential principles using detailed illustration. It is an ideal resource for managers and technicians in the aerospace industry without engineering degrees, pilots, and anyone interested in the mechanics of flight.