Aeroplanes
by James Slough Zerbe (1849–1921)
- Free to read
- 3 hours to read
- 16 chapters
- Reading level: 8th & 9th grade
"Aeroplanes" by James Slough Zerbe is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the theories and practical applications of aviation, discussing how flying machines are constructed and the various methodologies employed to control them. It delves into the differences between mechanical flight and bird flight, and offers insights into the aerodynamics of kites, gliders, and their uses in warfare, presenting a comprehensive exploration of the science of aviation. The opening of "Aeroplanes" outlines the book's intention to serve as an instructional guide rather than a historical narrative or an account of aviation exploits. Zerbe emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying principles and mechanics of flight over mere diagrams and mechanical arrangements. He sets the stage for a discussion on the fundamental elements affecting flying, such as power, gravity, and resistance, and introduces concepts like lift and drag in the context of different machine types. Through its engaging and educational approach, the book aims to appeal to young readers and novices eager to learn about the fascinating field of aviation.
Read the opening
Chapter I: Theories and Facts About Flying
The "Science" of Aviation. Machine Types. Shape
or Form not Essential. A Stone as a Flying Machine.
Power the Great Element. Gravity as Power. Mass
and Element in Flying. Momentum a Factor. Resistance.
How Resistance Affects Shape. Mass and Resistance.
The Early Tendency to Eliminate Momentum.
Light Machines Unstable. The Application of
Power. The Supporting Surfaces. Area not the Essential
Thing. The Law of Gravity. Gravity. Indestructibility
of Gravitation. Distance Reduces Gravitational
Pull. How Motion Antagonizes Gravity. A
Tangent. Tangential Motion Represents Centrifugal
Pull. Equalizing the Two Motions. Lift and Drift.
Normal Pressure. Head Resistance. Measuring Lift
and Drift. Pressure at Different Angles. Difference
Between Lift and Drift in Motion. Tables of Lift and
Drift. Why Tables of Lift and Drift are Wrong.
Langley's Law. Moving Planes vs. Winds. Momentum
not Considered. The Flight of Birds. The
Downward Beat. The Concaved Wing. Feather Structure
Considered. Webbed Wings. The Angle of Movement.
An Initial Movement or Impulse Necessary. A
Wedging Motion. No Mystery in the Wave Motion.
How Birds Poise with Flapping Wings. Narrow-
winged Birds. Initial Movement of Soaring Birds.
Soaring Birds Move Swiftly. Muscular Energy
Exerted by Soaring Birds. Wings not Motionless.
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About this edition
This free edition of Aeroplanes by James Slough Zerbe comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #1445, released 1998-09-01. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Science - Physics, Engineering & Technology, How To ....
Summary provided by Project Gutenberg (automatically generated).
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