SWEPT WING Meaning and
Definition
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A swept wing refers to a specific design configuration in aviation where the wings of an aircraft are angled backward in a manner that is often described as a swept shape. This wing design is employed in order to enhance the aerodynamic performance, stability, and efficiency of the aircraft.
Typically, the wings are swept backward at an angle measured from the aircraft's leading edge, thereby forming a V-shaped or trapezoidal appearance. The sweeping angle may vary, ranging from moderate to extreme, based on the intended purpose and desired flight characteristics of the aircraft.
By adopting a swept wing design, several advantageous features are obtained. Firstly, it reduces the aerodynamic drag that an aircraft experiences during high-speed flight. This is accomplished by reducing the shockwave build-up at transonic and supersonic speeds, thus enhancing the overall efficiency of the aircraft.
Secondly, the swept wing enhances the inherent stability of the aircraft by shifting the center of pressure towards the rear, which contributes to better control and responsiveness during maneuvers.
Furthermore, the swept wing design can also reduce the effects of airflow disruption caused by turbulence and crosswinds, further improving the handling and stability of the aircraft.
In summary, the swept wing is a wing configuration where the wings of an aircraft are angled backward, providing improved aerodynamics, stability, and efficiency at high speeds, making it a widely adopted design feature in modern aviation.
Etymology of SWEPT WING
The term "swept wing" originated in the field of aeronautics to describe a specific wing design. The word "swept" refers to the shape of the wing, which is characterized by a backward inclination or sweep along its span. This design is often associated with supersonic aircraft.
The etymology of "swept" in this context is derived from the verb "to sweep". The verb "to sweep" has Old English roots and originally meant "to clean or tidy by using a broom or brush". Over time, the word "sweep" was also used metaphorically to describe the action of moving something in a smooth, continuous motion, which in turn led to its application in aviation to describe the wing design.
In aeronautics, the swept wing design was developed to address the challenges of supersonic flight.
