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Robert DiGiovanni
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What produces Thrust along the line of flight in a glider?

After reviewing discussions and vector diagrams of gliders in flight, the vertical lift component and the vertical drag components seem to produce a steady state, 0 acceleration balance with gravity. The glider is on a straight line flight towards the ground. Would the forward motion of the glider be accounted for by combining the horizontal lift vector and gravity? Would any other forces be involved?

Robert DiGiovanni
  • 21.4k
  • 2
  • 28
  • 75