How is camber characterized?

Camber is characterized by the curvature of an airfoil, which plays a significant role in the aerodynamics of a wing. The camber affects how airflow moves over and under the wing, ultimately influencing lift generation and performance. A cambered airfoil has a curved shape, with one side (the upper surface) typically being more arched than the other (the lower surface). This curvature leads to a difference in air pressure above and below the wing when it moves through the air, generating lift due to the principles of Bernoulli’s equation and Newton's third law of motion.

In contrast, a flat surface design does not have the advantages associated with camber since it lacks the curvature necessary for effective lift generation. Weight distribution, while important for overall flight dynamics and stability, is not a direct measure of camber. Similarly, the angle of attack refers to the angle between the wing's chord line and the relative wind, which also influences lift but is distinct from the inherent curvature of the airfoil itself. Overall, the characterization of camber is fundamentally tied to the shape of the airfoil and its ability to manipulate airflow for optimal aerodynamic performance.