Theory of Flight: Episode 1

Basic Aviation Terminologies

• Understanding these terms is essential for future topics.

Airfoil

• Structure curved to produce lift.
• Wings: Common example of airfoils.
• Propellers: Also airfoils; create forward lift called thrust.

Leading Edge and Trailing Edge

• Leading Edge: Front of the airfoil.
• Trailing Edge: End of the airfoil.

Chord Line

• Imaginary line between the leading edge and trailing edge.

Camber

• Curvature of an airfoil.
• Upper Camber: Upper curvature.
• Lower Camber: Lower curvature.
• Mean Camber: Average curvature.

Wingspan

• Distance from wingtip to wingtip.

Wing Area

• Calculated by multiplying the average length by the average width.
• Similar to the area of a rectangle.

Planform

• Shape of the wing when viewed from above.

Aspect Ratio

• Ratio of wingspan to wing chord.
• Gliders: Higher aspect ratio for reduced induced drag.
• Fighter Jets: Lower aspect ratio for high maneuverability.

Angle of Incidence

• Angle between the chord line and the longitudinal axis.
• Defines optimal takeoff speed.
• Usually fixed on most aircraft.

Relative Airflow

• Airflow relative to the aircraft's wings.
• Opposes aircraft's motion.
• Important in understanding different flight situations (e.g., stalls).

Angle of Attack

• Angle between the chord line and relative airflow.
• Crucial for determining aircraft performance.