As an expert in the field of aerodynamics, I can explain the complex process of how an airplane wing produces lift. Lift is the force that opposes the weight of the airplane and allows it to ascend and stay aloft. The primary mechanism behind lift is the shape of the wing, known as an airfoil, and the principles of fluid dynamics.

The airfoil is designed with a curved upper surface and a flatter lower surface. When air flows over the wing, it is split into two streams: one going over the top of the wing and the other going under it. The key to lift is that these two streams of air must meet at the trailing edge of the wing at the same time.

Due to the curvature of the upper surface, the air traveling over the top of the wing has to travel a longer distance in the same amount of time as the air traveling under the wing. This causes the airspeed over the top to be higher than the airspeed under the wing. According to Bernoulli's principle, an increase in the speed of the fluid (in this case, air) results in a decrease in pressure. Therefore, the pressure above the wing is lower than the pressure below the wing.

However, it's important to note that while Bernoulli's principle does play a role in the creation of lift, it is not the sole explanation. The shape of the wing and the angle at which it is positioned relative to the oncoming airflow, known as the angle of attack, also significantly affect the generation of lift. When the wing is at a positive angle of attack, the airflow is deflected downwards, and according to Newton's third law of motion, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This downward deflection of air results in an upward force on the wing, which is the lift.

Additionally, the boundary layer of air that adheres to the surface of the wing plays a crucial role. The boundary layer can either remain attached to the wing, contributing to smooth flow and lift, or it can separate, leading to turbulent flow and a reduction in lift. The design of the wing, including features like flaps and slats, helps manage this boundary layer to optimize lift at various speeds and angles of attack.

In summary, the production of lift by an airplane wing is a multifaceted phenomenon involving the shape of the airfoil, the relative airspeeds over and under the wing, the pressure differences created by these airspeeds, the angle of attack, and the management of the boundary layer. Bernoulli's principle helps to explain the pressure differences, but the complete picture includes Newton's laws of motion and the principles of fluid dynamics.

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In order to meet up at the trailing edge, the molecules going over the top of the wing must travel faster than the molecules moving under the wing. Because the upper flow is faster, then, from Bernoulli's equation, the pressure is lower. The difference in pressure across the airfoil produces the lift.Apr 5, 2018read more >>