What defines the chord of a wing?

The chord of a wing is defined as the straight-line distance from the leading edge to the trailing edge. This measurement is crucial in aerodynamics, as it helps determine the wing's airfoil shape and performance characteristics. Specifically, the chord length contributes to the calculation of various parameters like lift and drag, which are fundamental in flight dynamics.

Understanding the chord is essential for pilots and engineers when assessing how different wing designs will perform under varying conditions. For example, a larger chord can imply greater lift capability at lower speeds, while a shorter chord often allows for higher speeds. Thus, recognizing that the chord refers specifically to that distance between the leading and trailing edges is fundamental to grasping the mechanics of wing design and function.