Title: Explain Bernoulli's principle to flight.
Course: Aerospace Technology I (21055-I) > Section: Applying Aerodynamics

Explanation includes the way low-viscosity flow occurs when an increase in the speed of the fluid (air) occurs simultaneously with a decrease in pressure. When air flow velocity increases over a wing, the lower pressure on the upper wing increases. Application should also include discussion of the biplane effect (inter-wing convergence and divergence) and lift vs. deflection.

Bernoulli’s Equation: P + 1/2 ρV^2 + ρgh = constant

P = pressure

ρ = air density

V = velocity

g = gravitational acceleration

h = elevation

Continuity Equation: P_1 - P_2 = 1/2 ρ(V^2_2 - V^2_1 )

A_1 V_1 = A_2 V_2

Teacher Resource:

Bernoulli's Principle On-Board the International Space Station, NASA Launchpad

Process/Skill Questions:

- How does Bernoulli’s principle influence wing design?
- Why does the velocity change around an airfoil?
- How is Bernoulli’s principle applied to short-takeoff and short-landing aircraft?
- What is ground effect, and does it help or hinder an aircraft takeoff or landing?
- Why do pilots flare when they land?