Leading edge
The leading edge is the part of the wing that first contacts the air;[1][2] alternatively it is the foremost edge of an airfoil section.[3] The first is an aerodynamic definition, the second a structural one. As an example of the distinction, during a tailslide, from an aerodynamic point of view, the trailing edge becomes the leading edge and vice versa but from a structural point of view the leading edge remains unchanged.
Overview
The structural leading edge may be equipped with one or more of the following:
- Leading edge boots
- Leading edge cuffs
- Leading edge extensions
- Leading edge slats
- Leading edge slots
- Krueger flaps
- Stall strips
- Vortex generators.
Associated terms are leading edge radius and leading edge stagnation point.[3]
Seen in plan the leading edge may be straight or curved. A straight leading edge may be swept or unswept, the latter meaning that it is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft. As
In high-speed aircraft, compression heating of the air ahead of the wings can cause extreme heating of the leading edge. Heating was a major contributor to the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia during re-entry on February 1, 2003.[citation needed]
Sail boats
When sailing into the wind, the dynamics that propel a
References
- ISBN 9780850451634.
- ISBN 1-56027-287-2
- ^ ISBN 0-07-139606-3.
- ^ Collie, S.J.; M.G. Gerritsen; M.J. O'Sullivan. "Numerical simulation of the turbulent flow past upwind yacht sails" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on August 30, 2011. Retrieved December 10, 2011.