Physics – 1.5.1 Effects of forces | e-Consult

Aircraft wings are designed with a specific shape to minimize air resistance (drag) and maximize lift. The key principle behind this design is to create a difference in air pressure above and below the wing. This is achieved through the shape of the wing, which is typically curved on the upper surface and relatively flat on the lower surface.

As air flows over the wing, it has to travel a longer distance over the curved upper surface compared to the lower surface. This causes the air to speed up above the wing. According to Bernoulli's principle, faster-moving air has lower pressure. Therefore, the air pressure above the wing is lower than the air pressure below the wing. This pressure difference creates an upward force – lift.

The streamlined shape of the wing also plays a crucial role in reducing drag. A streamlined shape allows air to flow smoothly around the wing with minimal turbulence. Turbulence increases drag because it creates areas of low and high pressure that disrupt the airflow. By minimizing turbulence, the wing reduces the amount of energy lost to friction (drag) as the air flows around it. The smooth, curved upper surface helps the air to separate smoothly, reducing the formation of large, turbulent eddies. Therefore, the wing's shape is a compromise between generating lift and minimizing drag, with the overall goal of achieving efficient flight.