What does Bernoulli’s principle state in relation to flight?

Bernoulli’s principle is a fundamental concept in aerodynamics that describes the relationship between the speed of a fluid and its pressure. Specifically, it states that within a flowing fluid, an increase in the speed of the fluid corresponds to a decrease in pressure or potential energy within that fluid.

In the context of flight, this principle explains how air moves over and under the wings of an aircraft. As the wing moves through the air, the shape of the wing (airfoil) causes the air to travel faster over the top surface than the bottom surface. According to Bernoulli’s principle, because the air moves faster over the top of the wing, the pressure on that surface decreases. Meanwhile, the pressure beneath the wing remains relatively higher. This difference in pressure creates lift, allowing the aircraft to rise off the ground.

Understanding this principle is crucial for comprehending how wings generate lift and how changes in fluid dynamics affect flight performance. It highlights the importance of airspeed and pressure differentials in achieving flight.