THREE BASIC VARIABLES OF AN OBJECT IN MOTION
1. Mass
Mass is an intrinsically determined value. It is a value that cannot be changed unless the volume, density, or object itself is changed or manipulated. Mass is one of the most important factors to be taken into account for flight because of how many other component forces rely on its value. A few examples are shown below: - Velocity - Acceleration - Centers of Mass - Weight - Momentum Weight is an important one to keep in mind because it is the composition of mass and gravity - the force to overcome in order to lift an object. |
2. Velocity
Velocity is the rate of change in distance of an object. This is different than speed because velocity also shows direction. Velocity is an important factor because it helps determine how much energy we need to make an object arrive at a certain place on time. It also plays a key role in an object's momentum, which relates to stopping distance 3. Acceleration
Acceleration is the numerical analysis of how fast an object's velocity is changing over time - speeding up or slowing down. Qualitatively, it shows how fast an object is moving per second per second. This information is vital when determining what the best way is to land or take off an object. |