2d – Lift

Lift is the upward force created by the effect of airflow as it passes over and under the wings.

Lift counters the weight force that is holding the aircraft down.


Source: quest.nasa.gov

Wings create a low pressure region (=pulling) on the top and a high pressure region (=pushing) on the bottom surface (compared to ambient pressure). In total, this creates a force in upward direction
Air flows from the right to the left.
Lift is related to the square of the speed (L ~ VĀ²) and to the angle of attack, which is the direction of the flow. The more the flow comes from the bottom, the higher the lift is!

5 Responses to “2d – Lift”

  • why does air go according to the shape of the plane?

    • The shape of the wing is not symmetrical on purpose: to create the lift force for the plane to fly. It also helps to know where is the “front” of the wing.
      The aircraft company will then put the engine so that the air will be sucked (or move) in the “correct” direction to create lift (from the front to the back of the wing).

    • Hello Pujan,

      when you move your hand in the water, at any time you have water surrounding your hand – correct?
      And this happens whatever shape your hand whould have – a fist or flat.
      The same happens to the wing when moving in the air. At any time, whatever speed the wing goes, the wing will be surrounded by air.
      No vacuum is created.
      I hope that helps.

  • Nice posts! šŸ™‚
    ___
    Sanny

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