# Engineering Science and Drag calculations for a simple dinghy

• middlj
In summary, to compile a report on the science behind a boat, you will need to calculate the drag force and engine power needed to achieve a speed of 20 mph, as well as perform buoyancy calculations. To calculate the drag force, use the equation F_D = 1/2 * C_D * A * p * V^2, and to calculate the engine power, use the equation P = F_D * V. For buoyancy calculations, use the equations W = m * g, V = m_displaced / p, and F_B = p * g * V.
middlj

## Homework Statement

I have to compile a report for a project on the science behind a boat. Its a really open ended aissignement, I have no ideas where to start or what equations to use.

I need the boat to go 20mph and therefore calculate what engine power I will need to make it reach that speed.

In addition I need to do some buoyancy calculations.

I'm sorry if this seems vauge but its all i have.

Any Help or guidance would be greatly appreciated!

## The Attempt at a Solution

To calculate the engine power you will need to achieve a speed of 20 mph, you will first need to calculate the drag force on the boat. This can be calculated by using the following equation: F_D = 1/2 * C_D * A * p * V^2 Where F_D is the drag force, C_D is the coefficient of drag, A is the frontal area of the boat, p is the density of the fluid (water in this case), and V is the velocity of the boat. Once you have the drag force, you can then calculate the power needed to overcome it by using the following equation: P = F_D * V This will give you the power needed to move the boat at the desired speed. For buoyancy calculations, you will need to calculate the weight of the boat and the volume it displaces. You can use the following equation for the weight of the boat: W = m * g Where W is the weight, m is the mass of the boat, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. The volume displaced by the boat can be calculated using the following equation: V = m_displaced / p Where V is the volume, m_displaced is the mass of the displaced fluid, and p is the density of the fluid. Once you have the weight and displaced volume, you can then calculate the buoyant force using the following equation: F_B = p * g * V Where F_B is the buoyant force, p is the density of the fluid, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and V is the volume displaced. I hope this helps you get started with your project!

I understand the importance of using established equations and principles to solve problems. In this case, you will need to consider the principles of engineering science and fluid dynamics to calculate the necessary engine power and buoyancy for your dinghy.

First, you will need to determine the drag force acting on the boat, which is the force that opposes the motion of the boat through the water. This can be calculated using the drag equation: Fd = 0.5 * ρ * V^2 * Cd * A, where ρ is the density of the fluid (in this case, water), V is the velocity of the boat, Cd is the drag coefficient, and A is the cross-sectional area of the boat.

Next, you will need to determine the required engine power to overcome this drag force and reach a speed of 20mph. This can be calculated using the equation: P = Fd * V, where P is the power, Fd is the drag force, and V is the velocity.

In addition to engine power, you will also need to consider the buoyancy of the boat. This can be calculated using Archimedes' principle, which states that the buoyant force on an object is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the object. Therefore, you will need to calculate the volume of water displaced by your dinghy and use the density of water to determine the buoyant force.

To ensure the safety and stability of your dinghy, you will also need to consider factors such as weight distribution, center of gravity, and stability. These can be calculated using principles of statics and dynamics.

I recommend consulting with a naval architect or experienced boat designer for more specific guidance and assistance with your project. Good luck!

## What is the purpose of engineering science in calculating drag for a simple dinghy?

The purpose of engineering science in calculating drag for a simple dinghy is to understand the forces acting on the dinghy as it moves through water and to determine the most efficient design for the dinghy to minimize drag. This can help improve the performance and speed of the dinghy.

## What factors influence the drag of a simple dinghy?

The factors that influence the drag of a simple dinghy include the shape and design of the hull, the speed of the dinghy, the density and viscosity of the water, and the presence of any obstacles or rough surfaces in the water.

## How is drag calculated for a simple dinghy?

Drag is calculated using mathematical equations that take into account the velocity of the dinghy, the density and viscosity of the water, and the shape and size of the hull. These calculations can be done using computational fluid dynamics software or by conducting experiments in a controlled environment.

## What are the different types of drag that affect a simple dinghy?

The different types of drag that affect a simple dinghy include friction drag, form drag, and wave drag. Friction drag is caused by the interaction between the hull and the water, while form drag is caused by the shape of the hull. Wave drag is caused by the creation of waves as the dinghy moves through the water.

## How can drag be minimized for a simple dinghy?

Drag can be minimized for a simple dinghy by designing the hull to have a streamlined shape, reducing any rough surfaces on the hull, and reducing the speed at which the dinghy moves through the water. Other techniques such as adding hydrofoils or using lightweight materials can also help minimize drag and improve the overall performance of the dinghy.

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