How Is Pressure Distributed on the Upper and Lower Surfaces of an Airplane Wing?

In summary, the question is asking to determine the pressure on the upper wing surface of an airplane with a mass of 1.60 x 10^4kg and wing area of 40.0m^2, given that the pressure on the lower wing surface during level flight is 7.00x10^4Pa. The solution involves using Newton's third law and the equation F=PA to calculate the total pressure needed to lift the plane's mass, and then subtracting the pressure difference from the absolute pressure on the bottom to find the pressure on the upper wing surface.
  • #1
Husker70
90
0

Homework Statement


An airplane has a mass of 1.60 x 10^4kg and each wing has an area of 40.0m^2.
During level flight, the pressure on the lower wing surface is 7.00x10^4Pa. Determine
the pressure on the upper wing surface?


Homework Equations


Newtons third law


The Attempt at a Solution


As I read through about airplane and wing I see that the force on the wing
has an equal and opposite reaction force. Also the curvature of the wing is a factor.
This problem states no curvature? The wings are assumed parellel to plane.
Is this simply 7.00x10^4 for the top? from the information given or am I missing
something
Thanks,
Kevin
 
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  • #2
You are reading too much into the question.
All it is asking is how much force is needed to lift the plane's mass.
Given the wing area how much pressure difference is needed to supply this force.
 
  • #3
Thanks,
hmmm. Don't know what to do with the mass
F = PA so that is to be (7.00x10^4)(40.0m^2) x 2 = 5.6x10^6N
I might need a clue from there.
Thanks,
Kevin
 
  • #4
Force down = weight = mg
Force up = pressure difference * area

It want's the total pressure so you need to subtract the pressure difference from the absolute pressure on the bottom
 

1. How does pressure affect the wings of a plane?

Pressure plays a crucial role in the aerodynamics of a plane's wings. As the plane moves through the air, the shape of the wing and the angle at which it meets the air creates a difference in pressure between the upper and lower surfaces of the wing. This pressure difference results in lift, which is what keeps the plane in the air.

2. What happens to the pressure on a plane's wings during takeoff and landing?

During takeoff and landing, the plane's speed and angle of attack change, causing fluctuations in the pressure on the wings. This is why pilots must carefully adjust the angle of the wings and the speed of the plane to maintain the necessary lift for a safe takeoff and landing.

3. Can changes in temperature affect the pressure on a plane's wings?

Yes, changes in temperature can affect the pressure on a plane's wings. As the air temperature changes, the density of the air also changes, which can impact the pressure difference between the upper and lower surfaces of the wings. Pilots must account for these changes when making adjustments during flight.

4. How do high and low pressure systems in the atmosphere impact a plane's flight?

High and low pressure systems in the atmosphere can have a significant impact on a plane's flight. High pressure systems typically bring clear, stable weather conditions, while low pressure systems can bring turbulence and strong winds. Pilots must be aware of these systems and make adjustments to their flight path to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

5. Is there a limit to how much pressure a plane's wings can withstand?

Yes, there is a limit to how much pressure a plane's wings can withstand. This limit is determined by the strength and design of the wings, and exceeding it can lead to structural damage or even failure of the wings. Engineers carefully consider these factors when designing and testing aircraft to ensure they can withstand the pressures of flight.

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