What is the purpose of an airfoil?

The purpose of an airfoil is fundamentally to generate lift when air passes over and under its surfaces. This lift is crucial for enabling an aircraft to ascend and maintain flight. An airfoil is typically shaped in a way that the airflow over its upper surface travels faster than the airflow underneath, resulting in a pressure difference that produces lift.

The design of an airfoil is optimized to maximize this lift while considering various factors like angle of attack and airspeed. This characteristic is essential for the aircraft's ability to rise and maneuver effectively in the air. Understanding this principle allows aerospace engineers and pilots to design and operate aircraft efficiently, emphasizing the critical role that airfoils play in aviation.