Aircraft lift generation is based on the special design of wings called airfoils. The wing has a curved upper surface and a relatively flat lower surface. When air flows over the wing, it creates different flow speeds above and below, resulting in a pressure difference that generates upward lift force.
Bernoulli's principle is fundamental to understanding lift. It states that when a fluid moves faster, its pressure decreases. In a pipe with different diameters, fluid flows faster through the narrow section and slower through the wide section. The narrow section has lower pressure while the wide section has higher pressure. This same principle applies to airflow over aircraft wings.
The key to understanding lift lies in the different path lengths. Air flowing over the curved upper surface of the wing must travel a longer distance compared to air flowing under the relatively flat lower surface. Since both air masses must reach the trailing edge at the same time, the air above moves faster than the air below. This speed difference is crucial for creating the pressure differential.
The angle of attack is another crucial factor in lift generation. This is the angle between the wing's chord line and the incoming airflow. When the wing is tilted upward, it deflects the incoming air downward. According to Newton's third law, for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. As the wing pushes air downward, the air pushes back on the wing with an upward force, contributing to lift.
In summary, aircraft lift generation is the result of multiple physical principles working together. Bernoulli's principle explains how the curved wing shape creates pressure differences, while Newton's laws explain how air deflection contributes additional upward force. The wing's airfoil shape and angle of attack are carefully designed to optimize both effects. This combination of aerodynamic principles enables aircraft to overcome gravity and achieve sustained flight.