Race cars differ from passenger cars due to some characteristics, such as high speed, height and relation to the ground, engine power, fuel consumption, wheel rims and auxiliary parts such as front and rear. Some categories favor the structure of the passenger car, causing changes only in the suspension, engine, gears, wheels and tires.
In the case of a formula 1 car, the project is entirely focused on technological innovation, as they are built in order to perform at high speeds. On a trip, a passenger car develops an average speed of around 80 to 100 km/h, while a formula 1 develops, depending on the circuit, an average speed between 165km/h to 240km/h.
The speed of a formula 1, at the end of a long straight, can reach very close to 370 km/h. These cars can reach high speeds due to their aerodynamics designed for that purpose.
Among the various components responsible for the aerodynamics of a formula 1, such as the diffuser, the external plates, the side deflectors and the floor, we highlight the front and rear airfoils as those responsible for "holding" the car on the track. They have the same function as an airplane wing, the only difference is that they work inversely. The wing of an airplane has the function of providing sustainability and that of a formula 1, of creating a vertical force called downward (downforce), pushing the car towards the ground.
Engineers, with the help of the pilot, look for the best lean angle for the front and rear wings in order to obtain the best balance between downforce and air resistance. In this adjustment, the mechanics use the angle measurement units: degrees, minutes and seconds.
High straight speeds need less downforce, that is, because the car is in a straight line, the downforce can be smaller, enabling the car to reach high speeds. But when making a turn, this force is used to keep the car on the correct trajectory, without leaving the track. The airfoils also reduce the turbulence caused by the headwind that hits the moving car. The adjustment of the wings varies according to the track, type of riding, tire class, weather conditions, among other situations. Therefore, it is extremely important that engineers, mechanics and pilots find the ideal setting to achieve satisfactory results.
by Mark Noah
Graduated in Mathematics
Source: Brazil School - https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/matematica/corridas-automobilisticas-matematica.htm
