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Induced Angle of Attack
The induced angle of attack refers to the difference in angle of attack that an airfoil “sees” compared to the angle of attack measured against the free stream air flow well in advance of the airfoil. As air approaches an airfoil in flight, it rises in a wave-like motion in advance of the airfoil, causing the airfoil to experience a different angle of attack. This induced angle of attack is critical to understanding the aerodynamic properties of an airfoil, and it plays a significant role in calculating lift and drag. Properly accounting for the induced angle of attack is essential for aircraft designers and pilots to ensure safe and efficient flight.
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