Lift forces and the Bernoulli principle

Overview

Lift force and the Bernoulli principle, the discus and angle of attack, downward lift on a Formula 1 car and its drawback, spinning objects, the boundary layer and lift at speed.

What you need to know

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Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What is lift force?

   Model answer

   Lift is a force that acts at right angles to the direction of motion of a body through a fluid. Lift can act upwards or downwards.

2. 2

   What is the Bernoulli principle?

   Model answer

   The Bernoulli principle states that faster-moving air exerts lower pressure. A pressure difference then creates a force.

3. 3

   How does a discus create upward lift?

   Model answer

   The discus is thrown at an angle of attack so air travels further and faster over the top. Lower pressure above creates upward lift.

4. 4

   What is the angle of attack?

   Model answer

   The angle of attack is the angle between the object and the airflow. An angle of about 17° is often given as best for the discus.

5. 5

   How does upward lift increase the distance of a discus throw?

   Model answer

   Lift keeps the discus in the air for longer. The discus travels further horizontally.

6. 6

   How does a Formula 1 car create downward lift?

   Model answer

   Spoilers shaped like inverted aerofoils make air travel faster underneath. Lower pressure below pushes the car down onto the track.

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