Talk:Aerodynamic heating

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[edit] Low velocities

The article says "Aerodynamic heating is not a factor at subsonic speeds", but it is present isn't it? As T_amb*(gamma-1)/2 * M^2 is continous, then heating is taking place at all speeds, and whether it is significant depends on what is being considered. For example, Mach 0.5 in air at 20 deg C gives a temperature rise of close to 15 deg C. JBel 19:44, 12 November 2007 (UTC)

DoneMangogirl2 02:40, 14 November 2007 (UTC)

[edit] History

It is surprising to learn that ancient authors believed that lead sling-bullets, heated by their passage through the air, would melt in flight.

Lucretius, On the Nature of Things[1] --
Just as thou seest how motion will o'erheat
And set ablaze all objects, - verily
A leaden ball, hurtling through length of space,
Even melts.
Virgil, The Aeneid[2], Book 9, Stanza LXXV --
His lance laid by, thrice whirling round his head
The whistling thong, Mezentius took his aim.
Clean through his temples hissed the molten lead,
And prostrate in the dust, the gallant youth lay dead.

Although they were incorrect, it does show that the idea of aerodynamic heating has a long history - and demonstrates quite sophisticated thinking from early times. Gaius Cornelius (talk) 16:58, 30 April 2008 (UTC)