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Formula One glossary

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NACA airfoil

A collection of airfoils designed for aircraft wings developed by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA). The shape of the NACA airfoils is described using a series of digits following the word "NACA."

Net horsepower

The brake power (power available at the crankshaft) of a fully equipped engine fitted with all the accessories necessary to perform its intended functions unaided. In 1973, automobile manufacturers began publishing their engine specifications in "net" horsepower and "net" torque instead of "gross" figures.

Nomex

Registered brand name of a flame retardant meta-aramid material. It was first discovered by DuPont in the 1970s. It is sold in both fiber and sheet forms and is used as a fabric wherever resistance from heat and flame is required. It currently forms an essential part in a driver's race suit, gloves, underwear, as well as the suits of mechanics working in the pitlane.

Normally aspirated engine

An engine that uses intake air at atmospheric pressure and temperature to mix with the fuel for combustion. Generally this means that the intake is not assisted by a supercharger or turbocharger. Formula One engines from 1989 until 2013 are all normally aspirated as turbo charging was forbidden. As of 2014 all engines are turbo charged for highest power within the changed rules.