Zooms maintain total energy, assuming no losses.

Total energy = potential energy + kinetic energy = mgh + 1/2 mv2.

If v(elocity) reduced from 80 knots to 50 knots then
Gain in h (eight) = 170 feet.
From 100 knots to 50 knots then gain = 330 feet.

Hence those pull-ups into thermals and after racing finishes.

If you were at 80 knots and dived 350 feet, then you would
Accelerate to 120 knots.

However if you are low and slow at 50kts then a pull up
Will only give you 40 feet before you stall at 40 knots.

Rory


Author: Edward Winchester
Date/Time: 16:10 07 September 2006
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If you're cruising fast between thermals, it may work better to put the
stick in your lap, which would zoom you at least a couple hundred feet.
(don't ask me how I know this.)