Aerodynamics: Downwash and Lift Curve Correction

Flashcards covering vocabulary and definitions related to downwash, aspect ratio, lift curve slope, and efficiency factor from the lecture notes.

Downwash

An induced airflow component that acts to reduce the effective angle of attack, therefore lowering $C_L$.

Efficiency Factor ($e$)

A factor that is a function of $AR$ and $X$, having a typical value of $.95$ or higher.

High Aspect Ratio - Straight Wings

A wing planform configuration noted with an aspect ratio of $AR = 4.0$.

Incompressible Flow

The flow regime specified for the given lift curve slope calculations.

Lift Curve Slope

The slope of the lift curve $a$, which must be expressed in radians.

Effective Angle of Attack

The reduced angle of attack resulting from downwash-induced airflow.

Lift Curve Correction

A correction applied to the lift curve to account for parameters like high aspect ratio.

Local Relative Wind

The relative wind direction at the local wing section, modified by downwash.

Aspect Ratio ($AR$)

A wing geometry parameter that directly influences the efficiency factor ($e$) and lift curve corrections.

Typical Value of $e$

The standard expected value for the efficiency factor $e$, which is $.95$ or higher.