Parasite drag is defined as what type of drag?

Parasite drag refers to the resistance an object encounters as it moves through a fluid, in this case, air. It is primarily a result of the object's shape, surface texture, and the area exposed to the airflow. This type of drag is unrelated to the generation of lift; rather, it arises from the friction and pressure differences that occur when an object's surface interacts with the fluid.

As the object moves, the air has to flow around it, creating turbulence and drag. The overall impact of parasite drag increases with the square of the object's speed and is a critical factor in the aerodynamic performance of aircraft, especially at higher speeds. Understanding parasite drag is essential for optimizing design and improving fuel efficiency, as minimizing this drag can significantly enhance performance.