Airflow Separation
In the context of aerospace engineering, airflow separation refers to the phenomenon where the flow of air detaches from the surface of an aircraft or a spacecraft. This usually occurs when the angle of attack increases beyond a certain point, causing the smooth laminar flow to break down into a turbulent flow. The point at which this happens is known as the separation point. Airflow separation can lead to a significant loss of lift and an increase in drag, which can adversely affect the performance and stability of the aircraft or spacecraft. It is a critical factor in the design and operation of aerospace vehicles, as it can lead to stalling, which is a dangerous condition where the aircraft loses lift and begins to fall. Engineers use various techniques to delay or prevent airflow separation, such as the use of vortex generators or wing slats.
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