The aerodynamics a stock car goes through during a race displays fundamentals in fluid mechanics. The car experiences drafts, drag, ground effect and down forces. Aerodynamic Factors: • Down Force • Drag • Ground Effect • Draft Figure 1 (Pressure Differentials) Airflow is the prime factor in car design for racing. Producing more down force gives a car more control and stability but sacrifices speed. Car designers use fluid mechanics to find a properly balanced net down force for each car. ...

• Word Count: 3179
• Approx Pages: 13
• Grade Level: High School