Image for Prandtl-Glauert Rule

Prandtl-Glauert Rule

The Prandtl-Glauert Rule describes how an aircraft’s appearance of speed and aerodynamics change as it approaches and exceeds the speed of sound. It states that the aerodynamic forces, like lift and drag, increase significantly as the aircraft nears this speed. Specifically, the rule provides a mathematical factor that predicts these changes, indicating that objects moving close to the speed of sound will experience amplified aerodynamic effects. This concept helps engineers understand and anticipate the behavior of high-speed aircraft, guiding design and safety considerations near transonic speeds.