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Hi Rich,

Differences in air pressure above and below the wing generate the entire force of lift. These differences in air pressure can be explained entirely by the Bernoulli principle. In general, the average pressure exerted on the top surface of the wing (pressing down) is smaller than the average pressure exerted on the bottom surface (pressing up).  The lower pressure on the top and higher pressure on the bottom generate lift. The airfoil shape, the angle of attack of the wing, and the surface area of the wing affect the amount of lift a wing can generate.  Air speed and density also affect lift.

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