Sustentação (Lift)
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
Formula
L = ½ρv²CLA
About this calculator
The aerodynamic lift calculator determines the lift force generated by an airfoil, such as airplane wings, propellers, or turbine blades. Lift is essential for flight, allowing aircraft to overcome gravity. The tool uses the equation L = ½ ρ v² CL A, where L is lift, ρ air density, v relative velocity, CL lift coefficient, and A wing area. The calculation is fast and accurate, ideal for engineering projects and studies.
Operation is simple: enter air density (kg/m³), velocity (m/s), lift coefficient (dimensionless), and wing area (m²). The calculator applies the formula and returns the force in newtons. For example, for a wing area of 20 m², flying at 50 m/s in standard air (ρ=1.225 kg/m³) with CL=0.5, lift is approximately 15,312.5 N. This helps verify if an aircraft can take off or maintain level flight.
Use this calculator for aircraft, drones, hang gliders, or any lift-generating object. It is also useful for physics or engineering students studying aerodynamics. Caution: CL depends on angle of attack and airfoil shape; air density varies with altitude and temperature. The calculator assumes ideal conditions; for realistic results, use wind tunnel data or CFD simulations.
Frequently asked questions
What is aerodynamic lift?
It is the force perpendicular to the airflow that keeps an object airborne, generated by the pressure difference between the upper and lower wing surfaces.
What is the unit of calculated lift?
The force is calculated in newtons (N), according to the International System of Units.
How to obtain the lift coefficient (CL)?
CL is obtained experimentally in wind tunnels or via simulations; for common airfoils, tables or software like XFOIL provide typical values.
Is air density constant?
No. It varies with altitude, temperature, and humidity. Use standard values (1.225 kg/m³ at sea level) or calculate based on local altitude.
Can I use this calculator for propellers?
Yes, as long as you have the projected blade area and appropriate coefficient. Note that propeller lift is complex due to rotational flow.