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Linear Resistive Force Formula:
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Linear resistive force describes the opposition to motion through a fluid or medium, where the force is directly proportional to the velocity of the object. This relationship is commonly observed in viscous fluids and damping systems.
The calculator uses the linear resistive force formula:
Where:
Explanation: The negative sign indicates that the resistive force always opposes the direction of motion. The damping coefficient represents how strongly the medium resists motion.
Details: Understanding resistive forces is crucial for designing mechanical systems, analyzing motion in fluids, calculating terminal velocity, and designing damping mechanisms in engineering applications.
Tips: Enter the damping coefficient in N·s/m and velocity in m/s. The damping coefficient must be positive, while velocity can be positive or negative depending on direction.
Q1: What is the physical significance of the damping coefficient?
A: The damping coefficient quantifies how much a medium resists motion. Higher values indicate stronger resistance, while lower values indicate weaker resistance.
Q2: When is the linear resistive force model applicable?
A: This model works well for low velocities in viscous fluids and for systems where the Reynolds number is low, ensuring laminar flow conditions.
Q3: How does this differ from quadratic drag?
A: Linear drag is proportional to velocity (F ∝ v), while quadratic drag is proportional to velocity squared (F ∝ v²). Linear drag dominates at low speeds, quadratic at high speeds.
Q4: What are typical units for damping coefficient?
A: The standard SI unit is Newton-seconds per meter (N·s/m), but other units like kg/s are also used since 1 N·s/m = 1 kg/s.
Q5: Can this formula be used for air resistance?
A: For most practical situations in air, quadratic drag is more appropriate. Linear drag is mainly used for very small objects or highly viscous fluids.