In writing the expressions for CL and CD for missiles and rockets, what does area A denote?

A)
Sum of all the fin areas
B)
Minimum cross-sectional area normal to the missile axis
C)
Maximum cross-sectional area normal to the missile axis
D)
The total surface area of the missile/rocket including the fins

Correct Answer :   Maximum cross-sectional area normal to the missile axis


Explanation : Area A denotes the maximum cross-sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the missile. So for a cylindrical missile body having a radius r, A = πr2.