Science of Speed

What does the science of aerodynamics study?

• The weight of objects
• The speed and flight of objects
• The movement of air
• The sound of air

What are three key aerodynamics principles?

• Drag, height, and acceleration
• Drag, downforce, and drafting
• Acceleration, downforce, and motion
• Acceleration, height, and motion

What word describes a force that slows an object when air pushes against it?

• Drag
• Downforce
• Drafting
• Deceleration

What aerodynamics force is used to create both lift and downforce?

• Air speed
• Air pressure
• Both A & B
• Neither A nor B

True or False?
Downforce is caused by the combination of high air pressure pushing against the top of an object and low air pressure beneath an object.

• True
• False

True or False?
Downforce is the opposite of Lift.

• True
• False

True or False?
Drafting is a driving strategy that improves speed.

• True
• False

Drafting happens when:

• Two or more racecars accelerate next to each other with inches between them.
• Two or more racecars line up, one behind the other, with inches between them.
• Two or more racecars tap the bumpers of the cars in front of them.
• None of the above.

The goal of adaptations to NASCAR racecars is:

• To prevent racecars from flipping over or lifting.
• To provide more downforce to improve tire traction.
• To create more contact between the tires and the tracks.
• All of the above.

Why is the science of aerodynamics important to racing?

• Aerodynamics helps improve the performance of cars, keeping them running smoothly and consistently.
• Aerodynamics reduces the speed of the racecars, preventing drivers from passing their competitors.
• Aerodynamics causes cars to veer off the track, jeopardizing the safety of the drivers.