The force of the wind is used to create motion by using one or more sails. The movement of the air over the sails acts in the same way that air moves over an aircraft's wing. The pressure difference created on either side of the sail(s) produces a driving force.
Sailboats also have a keel or centreboard, a structure whose broad, thin shape resists lateral movement of the hull while offering little resistance to forward motion through the water. Without such a structure, sailing upwind or across the wind is impossible.
Today, for most people, sailing is a hobby. Sailing can be further divided into two areas: Racing and Cruising.
In ancient times, ships used following or rear-quarter winds. They therefore had to wait in port or at sea for the right wind directions.
Olufemi
Nigeria
|
| Author: Vidya 23 May 2008 | Member Level: Diamond Points : 2 |
useful information
|
| Author: Shanthi M 29 May 2008 | Member Level: Diamond Points : 2 |
useful information.
|