drag ratio

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "drag ratio" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts related to aerodynamics, automotive performance, or fluid dynamics to describe the efficiency of a vehicle or object in overcoming drag forces. Example: "The drag ratio of the new sports car is significantly lower than its predecessor, allowing for better fuel efficiency at high speeds."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The cruise Mach number and the lift over drag ratio can be identified as aerodynamic contributions.

Journal of Mathematics in Industry

Figure 1 Airfoil lift to drag ratio at low Reynolds number from Wood (2011).

Renewables: Wind, Water, and Solar

High lift over drag ratio aerodynamic configuration was obtained by optimization design.

Procedia Engineering

In the shape optimization of BWBUG, the lift to drag ratio is often used as the optimization target.

International Journal of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering

The maximum lift to drag ratio of 24.16 was obtained at the optimum geometric and flow parameters.

Renewable Energy

BEM is used for obtaining maximum lift to drag ratio for each elemental constitution of the blade.

Energy Conversion and Management

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The Time Trialist While the top climbers often have the best power-to-weight ratio, the best time trialists have the best power-to-drag ratio.

The New York Times - Sports

It can be recharged in around three hours from a built-in charger, has a 15-metre wingspan and a lift-to-drag ratio of around 30:1.

The Economist

The study revealed that the lift-to-drag ratio was further enhanced by the animal's cylindrical body and jetlike flow between the pectoral and pelvic fins.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This favourable increase in the lift-to-drag ratio will create a tendency for the hand to "fly" up and over.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Dr Robertson is working on a twin-engined electric microlight with a wingspan of 10 metres (33 feet) and a lift-to-drag ratio of 18 1.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing aerodynamic efficiency, ensure that you clearly define whether you are referring to "drag ratio" in isolation or in relation to lift, as the lift-to-drag ratio provides a more complete picture of performance.

Common error

Avoid using "drag ratio" and drag coefficient interchangeably. Drag coefficient is a dimensionless number, whereas "drag ratio" often implies a comparison of drag forces under different conditions or designs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drag ratio" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used to describe or quantify the aerodynamic efficiency of an object or vehicle. It is frequently employed in scientific and engineering contexts to compare different designs, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "drag ratio" is a noun phrase primarily used in scientific and engineering fields to quantify aerodynamic efficiency. While Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability, it is important to use it accurately and consider related terms like lift-to-drag ratio for a more complete picture. "Drag ratio" appears most frequently in scientific contexts, with some usage in news media and encyclopedias. Improving the "drag ratio" of an object involves streamlining its shape and minimizing surface roughness. It’s crucial not to confuse "drag ratio" with the drag coefficient, as the latter is a dimensionless number. By following best practices and understanding common errors, writers can effectively use "drag ratio" to convey precise aerodynamic information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drag coefficient

Focuses on the measure of an object's resistance to motion through a fluid.

lift-drag ratio

Specifically includes both lift and drag forces for calculating overall efficiency.

aerodynamic drag

Refers to the force resisting an object's motion through the air.

coefficient of drag

Another term for quantifying drag force with a dimensionless number.

parasitic drag

Describes the drag caused by components that do not create lift.

induced drag

Describes the drag that is created as a result of generating lift.

form drag

Drag resulting from the shape of the object.

skin friction drag

Drag due to the friction of a fluid against the surface of an object.

pressure drag

Drag caused by pressure differences around an object moving in a fluid.

profile drag

The sum of skin friction drag and form drag.

FAQs

How is "drag ratio" used in aerodynamics?

In aerodynamics, "drag ratio" often refers to the comparison of drag forces between different designs or conditions, contributing to the overall efficiency of an aircraft or vehicle. It is related to concepts such as "drag coefficient" and "lift-drag ratio".

What is the difference between "drag ratio" and lift-to-drag ratio?

"Drag ratio" typically compares drag forces, while the lift-to-drag ratio ("lift-drag ratio") relates the amount of lift generated by an object to the drag it experiences. The lift-to-drag ratio is a more holistic measure of aerodynamic efficiency.

Can I use "drag ratio" to describe the performance of a car?

Yes, "drag ratio" can be used to describe a car's performance, particularly when comparing different aerodynamic configurations or modifications aimed at reducing drag. Lowering the "drag coefficient" improves fuel efficiency and top speed.

What are some ways to improve the "drag ratio" of an object?

Improving the "drag ratio" involves streamlining the object's shape, reducing surface roughness, and minimizing any protrusions that could increase drag. Techniques like using "fairings" and optimizing the body shape are effective.