Chapters 15–17

Boundary Layer Theory

The thin viscous layer that makes or breaks aircraft and rockets. Laminar vs turbulent, separation, and skin friction drag.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

→ Estimate skin friction on a rocket body
→ Understand transition and its drag penalty
→ Predict separation on an adverse gradient

KEY EQUATIONS

\delta / x \approx 5 / \sqrt{Re_x}

Blasius flat plate boundary layer thickness

INTERACTIVE LABS FOR THIS MODULE

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Mark complete to track progress toward Rocket Forge.

TODO (Phase 1): Add inline explanatory diagrams, worked numerical examples with live inputs, and a 3-question micro-quiz that contributes to the module score shown in progress.