Meaning of a wing strut in a airplane
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strut
paragraphs 1 and 4; paragraph under Uses
http://phil0s0phia.files.wordpress.com/2008/07/wing-struts.gif?w=376&h=296&h=296
Arrows are pointing at the wing struts.
A wing strut is a structural component in an airplane that helps to provide support and stability to the wings. It is typically a braced, diagonal member that extends from the fuselage or the center section of the wings to the wings' outer edges. The primary purpose of wing struts is to transfer the aerodynamic forces (such as lift and drag) from the wings to the fuselage, thus reducing the bending or twisting of the wings during flight.
To better understand the meaning of a wing strut in an airplane, you can follow these steps:
1. Research the basics of aircraft structure: Start by gaining a general understanding of how airplanes are built and the different components involved. This will provide you with a foundation to better comprehend the function and purpose of a wing strut.
2. Examine the design and layout of an airplane: Look into how the wings are attached to the fuselage and see if there are any visible diagonal members extending from the center section to the wingtips. Wing struts are often more prominent in biplanes or certain types of high-wing or strut-braced aircraft.
3. Study the concept of aerodynamic forces: Explore the principles of lift and drag in aviation. Understand that wings generate lift, but they also experience drag, which can cause bending or twisting moments on the wings. Wing struts play a vital role in minimizing these forces and maintaining the structural integrity of the wings.
4. Consider different types of aircraft: Recognize that not all airplanes have wing struts. For example, many modern commercial jetliners feature cantilever wings that do not require external bracing. However, they may still have other structural reinforcements in place.
By following these steps, you can grasp the meaning and significance of a wing strut in an airplane and appreciate how it contributes to the overall stability and structural strength of the aircraft.