Calculate the aerodynamic drag force acting on a moving object.
Fluid & Object Parameters
kg/m³
m/s
m²
Calculation Results
Enter velocity and area
About this calculator
Quick Reference
F_DDrag Force
ρFluid Density
vFlow Velocity
C_DDrag Coefficient
AProjected Area
Overview
Aerodynamic drag is the force that resists the motion of an object through a fluid. It increases with the square of the velocity, meaning doubling your speed quadruples the air resistance.
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Pro Tips
Standard air density at sea level is approximately 1.225 kg/m³.
The drag coefficient (Cd) is a dimensionless number that depends on the shape of the object.
The 'Projected Area' is the area of the object when viewed from the direction of travel.
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Fun Facts
"A high-speed train or a supercar spends the majority of its fuel just overcoming air resistance."
"Professional cyclists ride in a 'peloton' (group) to reduce their effective cross-sectional area and drag by drafting behind others."
"Golf balls have dimples specifically designed to create turbulence, which actually reduces the drag coefficient and allows them to fly further."
