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Frontal Area for Square Cylinder?

Frontal Area for Square Cylinder?

Frontal Area for Square Cylinder?

(OP)
This question relates to drag coefficients and the drag force.  This should be very easy, but I cannot find a reference that gives the formula for Frontal Area (Fa) for a square cylinder (i.e., a box).  On one hand, it should be as simple as Length * Height of the windward face (where the length is oriented horizontally).

However, often the drag coefficient is shown with a little picture of a box with the length oriented horizontal.  They call out the Length and Depth as if L*D should give the value for Fa.  But, wouldn't L*H instinctively make more sense?  (In this case, height would be the width of the windward face.)

In my case, I have a box standing vertically (i.e., with the length oriented vertically) wouldn't Fa = Height * Width?  (Some people I've asked were taught Fa is also called the projected area, but I can't find a reference to confirm that, either!)

Whatever the formula, I need a reference - preferably a fluids text I should be able to find at a college library.
Thanks!
 

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