1. What is Density Altitude?

Density altitude is pressure altitude corrected for non-standard temperature. It's the altitude at which the air density would be equal to the actual air density at the measurement location. For drag racing, it's a crucial factor affecting engine performance and aerodynamics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the density altitude equation:

Where:

• Pressure Altitude — Altitude corrected for non-standard pressure (ft)
• OAT — Outside Air Temperature (°C)
• ISA Temp — International Standard Atmosphere Temperature (°C)
• 120 — Constant conversion factor

Explanation: The equation accounts for how temperature affects air density, which impacts engine power and aerodynamic drag in racing.

3. Importance for Drag Racing

Details: Higher density altitude means less dense air, reducing engine power and aerodynamic downforce. Racers use this to adjust expectations and tune their vehicles.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter pressure altitude in feet, OAT and ISA temperature in °C. For accurate results, use current weather data from the track location.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is density altitude important in drag racing?
A: It directly affects engine horsepower and aerodynamic drag, impacting elapsed times and trap speeds.

Q2: What's a typical ISA temperature?
A: ISA temperature at sea level is 15°C, decreasing by 2°C per 1000 ft of altitude.

Q3: How does density altitude affect my car's performance?
A: Higher density altitude reduces air density, decreasing engine power and aerodynamic grip.

Q4: What's considered "good" density altitude for racing?
A: Lower is better - sea level conditions (0 ft density altitude) provide maximum air density for engine power.

Q5: Should I adjust my tune based on density altitude?
A: Serious competitors often make fuel and timing adjustments based on density altitude changes.