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Q:

Does the shape of a plane really influence its ability to fly?

A:

Yes! The shape of a wing is critical to creating lift. Subsonic airplanes have wings that are curved on top and flat on bottom. This produces lift using Bernoulli's Principle. The shape of a plane will also affect drag, which can slow down an airplane. This is why airplanes are usually teardrop shaped, to help them slip through the air with the least resistance.

Ask an Explainer
Posted on April 25, 2016 at 11:27 pm
Categories:
Forces of Flight
Aerodynamics
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