Definition
In physics and engineering, damping may be mathematically modelled as a force synchronous with the velocity of the object but opposite in direction to it. If such force is also proportional to the velocity, as for a simple mechanical viscous damper (dashpot), the force may be related to the velocity by
where c is the damping coefficient, given in units of newton-seconds per meter.
This force may be used as an approximation to the friction caused by drag. While friction is related to , if the velocity is restricted a small range, this non-linear effect may be small. In such a situation, a linearized friction coefficient may be determined which produces little error compared with the second order solution.
This relationship is perfectly analogous to electrical resistance as described by Ohm's law.
Read more about this topic: Damping
Famous quotes containing the word definition:
“The very definition of the real becomes: that of which it is possible to give an equivalent reproduction.... The real is not only what can be reproduced, but that which is always already reproduced. The hyperreal.”
—Jean Baudrillard (b. 1929)
“I’m beginning to think that the proper definition of “Man” is “an animal that writes letters.””
—Lewis Carroll [Charles Lutwidge Dodgson] (1832–1898)
“It’s a rare parent who can see his or her child clearly and objectively. At a school board meeting I attended . . . the only definition of a gifted child on which everyone in the audience could agree was “mine.””
—Jane Adams (20th century)