FoilSim
Mass & Velocity Effect

Science

• Demonstrate an understanding of scientific inquiry.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship among motions and forces.

Mathematics

• Use tables and graphs as tools to interpret expressions, equations, and inequalities.

Technology

• Research Tools - Use content-specific tools, software and simulations (e.g., environmental probes, graphing calculators, exploratory environments, Web tools) to support learning and research.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Tools - Routinely and efficiently use on-line information resources to meet needs for collaboration, research, publications, communications, and productivity.

Objective:

After reading the explanation given below, use FoilSim to complete the activity to fulfill the specifications of a given airfoil and then plot and interpret graphs.

FoilSim is an interactive simulation software package that examines the airflow around various shapes of airfoils. As you change the parameters of airspeed. altitude, angle of attack, thickness, curvature of the airfoil, and area of the wing, the software calculates lift. The package was created at the NASA Glenn Research Center to illustrate an example of the research being done there. Open FoilSim. (Click FoilSim to download a copy.) Open the slide called Momentum Effects (mass times velocity) and read the explanation on the variables that affect lift. Then using the FoilSim program, complete the Mass & Velocity Effects problems designed to demonstrate your ability to understand the relationships among an airfoil's lift and the variables it depends on.

Assessment:

You, or you and your partner(s), will be evaluated on the accuracy or feasibility of your answers.

 

Evaluation:

You will demonstrate the ability to use a simulation program found on the World Wide Web to learn how to fulfill the specifications of a given airfoil and plot and interpret graphs.

Submitted by:

Monroe Kennedy Jr., Ph.D., Shaker Heights High School, Shaker Heights, Ohio