Which type of drag is included in the concept of total drag for an aircraft?

Total drag for an aircraft is a combination of all the forces that oppose its motion through the air. The two primary components that are considered in this context are induced drag and parasite drag.

Induced drag occurs due to the generation of lift, which is inherently linked to the airflow around the wing tips, resulting in the creation of vortices. This type of drag is particularly significant at lower speeds or higher angles of attack when lift is more pronounced.

Parasite drag, on the other hand, consists of all the drag not associated with lift production. It can be further divided into form drag, skin friction drag, and interference drag. Parasite drag increases with the square of the velocity, meaning that as the speed of the aircraft increases, this type of drag grows significantly.

To understand total drag, it's important to recognize that both induced and parasite drag play critical roles in an aircraft's performance. Each type contributes to the overall drag experienced by the aircraft during flight, making their combined understanding essential for aerodynamics and flight efficiency.

Ground effect drag is not typically included in the consideration of total drag because it specifically pertains to the change in aerodynamic characteristics when an aircraft is near the ground. Thus, while it may impact drag under certain conditions, it does not