Spoilers vs Wings: A Car-Lover's Debate

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the differences between automotive spoilers and wings, exploring their definitions, functions, and applications in both automotive and aviation contexts. Participants seek to clarify terminology and concepts related to fluid mechanics as they pertain to these components.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that a wing is an airfoil designed to produce downforce, while a spoiler is intended to reduce drag by creating stagnant air.
  • Others argue that a spoiler serves to "spoil" airflow, which can reduce lift and increase drag, with applications in both cars and airplanes.
  • A participant requests clarification on the term "spoil," indicating they are learning about fluid mechanics and are unfamiliar with the jargon.
  • Another participant explains that "spoil" refers to making airflow less efficient for lift and inducing drag, comparing it to air brakes used in aviation.
  • There is a question raised about whether the creation of turbulence is the reason for reduced lift efficiency, suggesting that laminar flow is preferable for lift.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the definitions and functions of spoilers and wings, with no consensus reached on the nuances of their applications or terminology.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about fluid mechanics terminology and concepts remain unresolved, and the discussion reflects varying levels of familiarity with the subject matter among participants.

Foshasta
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What is the difference between an automotive spoiler and an automotive wing? Is there a difference?

My understanding has always been that a wing is an airfoil, and is used to produce downforce, while a spoiler is is just a lip that is used to reduce drag by creating a pocket of stagnant air. This is what people on the car forums seem to think as well. Is there anyone with actual fluid mechanics experience that can give a more insightful perspective into this?
 
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A wing is a wing (an airfoil). Typical use is to create downforce.

A spoiler is there to "spoil" any other flow. The use in airplanes is to "spoil" the lift of the wings, usually to allow a greater descent rate.
On a car there are some obvious uses such as spoiling the underbody flow. One of the most famous applications is to spoil the up-force (lift) created by the common fastback tail
 
olivermsun said:
A wing is a wing (an airfoil). Typical use is to create downforce.

A spoiler is there to "spoil" any other flow. The use in airplanes is to "spoil" the lift of the wings, usually to allow a greater descent rate.
On a car there are some obvious uses such as spoiling the underbody flow. One of the most famous applications is to spoil the up-force (lift) created by the common fastback tail

Thanks for the response!

Could you explain what you mean by "spoil?" I'm currently taking an entry-level fluid mechanics class; I'm not familiar with all the jargon yet.
 
'Spoil' means making the airflow less effiicient for lift and induces drag as well.
Air brakes basically, good for quick descent and landing but otherwise a waste of energy,
Seems to be becoming quite normal for short flights lately.
It may be more fuel efficient to stay at high altitude until descent path has been cleared by ATC?
 
rootone said:
'Spoil' means making the airflow less effiicient for lift and induces drag as well.
Air brakes basically, good for quick descent and landing but otherwise a waste of energy,
Seems to be becoming quite normal for short flights lately

Is that just because it creates turbulence? Laminar flow is better for lift, right?
 

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