What are the three types of parasite drag?

The three types of parasite drag are form drag, friction drag, and interference drag. These types of drag are crucial to understanding overall drag experienced by an aircraft, as they do not contribute to the generation of lift.

Form drag arises from the shape of the aircraft and how it affects airflow around it. It is influenced by the cross-sectional area and the aerodynamic characteristics of the body. For example, a more streamlined shape will result in lower form drag compared to a blunt shape.

Friction drag, on the other hand, is related to the skin friction between the surface of the aircraft and the air. This type of drag is affected by the texture of the surface and the viscosity of the air. A smoother surface will reduce friction drag.

Interference drag occurs when the airflow around different parts of the aircraft interacts. This can happen, for example, where the wing and fuselage meet. The interaction can create additional turbulence and drag beyond what each component would cause on its own.

These three types of parasite drag combine to affect an aircraft's performance and fuel efficiency, making it essential for pilots and engineers to understand their implications in aerodynamics.