What does Bernoulli's Principle explain in relation to airfoils?

Bernoulli's Principle illustrates how an increase in the speed of a fluid occurs simultaneously with a decrease in pressure. In the context of airfoils, this principle explains that as air flows over the curved upper surface of the airfoil, it must travel faster compared to the air moving beneath the flatter lower surface. Because the air is moving more rapidly above the airfoil, the pressure above the airfoil decreases relative to the pressure below it. This pressure differential produces lift, allowing the aircraft to rise into the air.

This principle is crucial for the understanding of how lift is generated, as it highlights that the velocity of the airflow and the resultant pressure changes are integral to flight mechanics. Understanding this helps pilots and engineers design more efficient and effective wing shapes aimed at maximizing lift while minimizing drag.