Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
FIG 4.46
A number of forces are
associated with flight. a: Drag. b: Lift.
c: Thrust. d: Gravity.
toward a very thin rear edge. Most wings demonstrate a curve or camber
throughout their width. The cross-section of the wing, known as the airfoil,
and its curve are critical to the wing's performance, with different-shaped
airfoils producing different aerodynamic characteristics. The distance from the
leading edge to the trailing edge is known as the
chord
.
(a)
FIG 4.47
Different airfoil shapes
provide different lift dynamics.
a: Symmetrical shape provides more
speed. b: Asymmetric cross-section
provides additional lift. c: Extreme
curve within the profile makes for
slower speeds but additional lift
potential.
(b)
(c)
Air moving across a wing produces lift due to the airfoil's profile. The wing's upper
edge deflects air across the upper surface of the airfoil, increasing the airspeed
and lowering the air pressure. The airfoil deflects less air on the underside of
