Aerodynamic forces are the forces that act on an object as it moves through the air. These forces include lift, drag, thrust, and weight. For example, when a bird flies, its wings create lift, allowing it to rise into the sky. At the same time, air resistance, or drag, works against the bird's motion, slowing it down.
Understanding aerodynamic forces is crucial in fields like aviation and automotive design. Engineers study these forces to create efficient aircraft and cars that can move smoothly through the air. By optimizing shapes and materials, they can reduce drag and improve performance, making travel faster and more fuel-efficient.