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In aerodynamics, the lift-to-drag ratio (or L/D ratio) is the lift generated by an aerodynamic body such as an aerofoil or aircraft, divided by the aerodynamic drag caused by moving through air. It describes the aerodynamic efficiency under given flight conditions. The L/D ratio for any given body will vary according to these flight conditions.
The ratio of the distance forwards to downwards is called the glide ratio. The glide ratio (E) is numerically equal to the lift-to-drag ratio under these conditions; but is not necessarily equal during other manoeuvres, especially if speed is not constant. A glider's glide ratio varies with airspeed, but there is a maximum value which is ...
open class sailplanes – typically around 60:1, but in more common 15–18 meter span aircraft, glide ratios are between 38:1 and 52:1; [4] high glide performance enabling long distance flight, with 3,000 kilometres (1,900 mi) being current (as of November 2010) record [5] Turn radius tightest turn radius [citation needed]
The tangent defines the minimum glide angle, for maximum range. The peak of the curve indicates the minimum sink rate, for maximum endurance (time in the air). Without power, a gliding aircraft has only gravity to propel it. At a glide angle of θ, the weight has two components, W.cos θ at right angles to the flight line and W.sin θ parallel ...
Glide ratio is dependent on an aircraft's class, and can typically range from 44:1 (for modern designs in the Standard Class) up to 70:1 (for the largest aircraft). A good gliding performance combined with regular sources of rising air enables modern gliders to fly long distances at high speeds.
The Eta is an example of a trend in glider development in which private pilots initiate the development of new open class gliders. The private development of the Concordia sailplane promises a further elevation of the max lift-to-drag ratio to slightly over 75 at 137 km/h (85 mph; 74 kn). [2]
Maximum glide ratio: 40 at 109 km/h (59 kn; 68 mph) Wing loading: 37.95 kg/m 2 (7.77 lb/sq ft) See also. Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era.
The best measured glide ratio is 42.5:1. Though it is considered a high performance sailplane, its handling is well within the capabilities of inexperienced pilots. With no bad manners, powerful airbrakes and a low landing speed, the Discus is popular with clubs.