In aerodynamics, flows are often fast enough where gravity can be neglected, allowing the <math> \rho g h</math> term (the gravitation potential term) to cancel out. In this case, Bernoulli's equation says that points of higher speed in the flow have lower pressure. This conclusion is fundamental to the principles of flight. When air flows over an airfoil it travels faster over the top of the wing because of its shape. From Bernoulli's equation, the pressure on the top of the wing is lower than the pressure on the bottom because of this difference in speed. This pressure difference is where lift comes from, which is essential for flight. | In aerodynamics, flows are often fast enough where gravity can be neglected, allowing the <math> \rho g h</math> term (the gravitation potential term) to cancel out. In this case, Bernoulli's equation says that points of higher speed in the flow have lower pressure. This conclusion is fundamental to the principles of flight. When air flows over an airfoil it travels faster over the top of the wing because of its shape. From Bernoulli's equation, the pressure on the top of the wing is lower than the pressure on the bottom because of this difference in speed. This pressure difference is where lift comes from, which is essential for flight. |