The sub-heading could just as well have been   "Aircraft Aerodynamics and Propulsion from Kindergarten to University in 100 pages".  The subject is dealt with in a lighthearted tone, without recourse to mathematics.  The book is targetted to inquisitive aviation enthusiasts: adults who want to understand the fundamentals of flight but whose curiosity is not satisfied by equation-packed scholarly textbooks on aerodynamics;  also to those who are not adverse to the time-honoured practice of One-Upmanship with its slightly unprincipled display of knowledge which one  almost  possesses.

 

The book is organized into two parts.  Part I deals with aerodynamics:  Drag, Lift and the importance of their ratio.  In particular the mechanism of lift, often the subject of heated discussions among the semi-informed, is gradually revealed by way of the intriguing Search for the Bound Vortex.   The role of viscosity is highlighted – without it, heavier-than-air flight would not be possible.

 

Part II, Thrust, deals with aircraft propulsion.  The crucial importance of the Wheel Bearing and the Airscrew to manned flight  is revealed.  The types of machinery for the generation of thrust are described in detail;  their application is shown to depend on the desired flight speed. This potentially "heavy" subject is lightened up by relevant anecdotes and footnotes.

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Tables of contents for the two Parts may by viewed by pressing:      

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Snippets of text may be viewed at:   

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