« Back to Dictionary Index

Generally the ratio between two dimensions of an object. In tire terminology it applies to the unloaded sidewall height of the tire divided by its overall width. A lower aspect ratio implies a shorter, wider tire. When used to describe a wing it is the span of the airfoil (the long dimension perpendicular to the airflow) divided by its chord (the dimension parallel to the airflow).

Related Articles:
Alternative Meanings:
  • Aspect Ratio

    Aspect Ratio can refer to several different ratios depending on the context:

    1. Rectangular Air Grille or Duct:
    • The ratio of the length to the width of a rectangular air grille or duct. This affects airflow and the efficiency of the system.
    1. Tires:
    • In tires, the aspect ratio is the ratio of the tire's sidewall height to its section width. For example, in a P185/80R13 tire, the "80" represents the aspect ratio, indicating that the sidewall height is 80% of the tire's width. A lower aspect ratio typically means a shorter, wider tire, which can affect handling and ride comfort.
    1. Wings:
    • For aircraft wings, the aspect ratio is the ratio of the wing's span (horizontal length) to its mean chord (average height). It is important for aerodynamic performance, affecting induced drag and the wing’s efficiency. The aspect ratio is defined as ( \frac{S^2}{A} ), where ( S ) is the span and ( A ) is the wing area. A higher aspect ratio generally indicates better performance in terms of lift-to-drag ratio.
    1. Fiber or Wire:
    • The ratio of the length of a fiber or wire to its width or diameter. This can affect the material's strength and flexibility.
    1. Pictures and Screens:
    • The ratio of the width to the height of a picture or screen. Common aspect ratios include 4:3, 16:9, and 21:9. The aspect ratio determines the shape and format of the image or display.
    1. Tokamak Fusion Machines:
    • In Tokamak-type fusion reactors, the aspect ratio refers to the ratio of the major radius (distance from the center of the torus to the center of the plasma) to the minor radius (distance from the center of the plasma to the edge of the torus). This ratio affects the confinement and stability of the plasma.

    Understanding aspect ratios in these contexts is crucial for designing and optimizing various components and systems, from tires and wings to displays and fusion reactors.

    See

    • ULP
« Back to Dictionary Index