Theoretical Aerodynamics

by L.M. Milne-Thomson

Book Overview

A classic in its field, this university text and reference book has long been one of the basic works. This is the complete reprinting of the revised (1966) edition which brings the subject up to date, including a complete and probably unique chapter on conical flow round sweptback wings. After two introductory chapters on the simplifying assumptions demanded for the study and a final chapter on vectors, the author treats the material in four fairly well-defined parts: (1) two-dimensional aerofoils (two-dimensional motion, rectilinear vortices, the circular cylinder as an aerofoil, Joukowski's transformation, theory of two-dimensional aerofoils, and thin aerofoils); (2) three-dimensional aerofoils (induced velocity, aerofoils of finite aspect ratio, the lifting line theory, lifting surface theory, propellers, and wind tunnel corrections); (3) subsonic and supersonic flow (subsonic flow, supersonic flow, supersonic sweptback and delta wings); and, (4) the aircraft as a whole (simple flight problems, moments, and stability). The treatment is founded on complex variable and vector methods, both of which are explained in the self-contained text. A wealth of problems, illustrations, and cross-references add to the book's value both as a text and a reference. The only prerequisite is a knowledge of the elements of the differential and integral calculus.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 048661980X
• ISBN13: 9780486619804
• Release Date: February 2011
• Publisher: Dover Publications
• Length: 464 Pages
• Weight: 1.06 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.4" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Excellent introductory text!

Milne's book provides an excellent introduction to the study of inviscid airflow using potential theory. The text begins with 2D airfoil analysis via complex transformation techniques (conformal mapping). It then progresses to 3D finite wing theory using lifting line and lifting surface theory. I concludes with chapters on wind tunnel corrections, propellers, swept wings (sub and supersonic flow), and basic stability theory. A reference book dealing with conformal mapping and complex numbers may be helpful. For this I easily recommend another 5-star book, "Complex Variables and the Laplace Transform for Engineers" by Wilbur R. Lepage.

Good Basic Textbook

I am an aeronautical engineering graduate and have been working in the aviation industry for over 20 years after graduation. I have read this book and found it to be a good reference book. This is a good basic textbook for those studying aerodynamics at undergraduate level. The author does a commendable job of clearly explaining the aerodynamic concepts which provide a good foundation on this subject for engineers.