Sweptback Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sweptback
[swept-bak ]
Definition
aerodynamics, design
The term 'sweptback' refers to a design feature primarily in aviation and automotive contexts where the wings or fins are angled backward from the vertical plane. This aerodynamic shape is typically used to enhance performance by reducing drag at high speeds. Sweptback wings are commonly seen in modern jet aircraft, as they allow for better control and stability during flight. The concept is rooted in the physics of aerodynamics and has led to significant advancements in vehicle design.
Synonyms
angled, backward-swept, slanted.
Examples of usage
- The fighter jet had sleek, sweptback wings.
- Aerodynamic efficiency was achieved with sweptback tail fins.
- Engineers opted for a sweptback design to improve speed.
- Many racing cars feature a sweptback rear end for reduced wind resistance.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Aerospace Engineering
- Sweptback wings are often used in jet aircraft to reduce drag at high speeds, making flying more efficient.
- The design helps improve stability and control, especially as planes fly faster than the speed of sound.
- Certain fighter jets use sweptback designs to improve maneuverability in combat situations.
Historical Context
- The concept of sweptback wings gained popularity during World War II as aircraft speeds increased.
- Notable planes like the Boeing 707 and the Concorde feature this design, which was revolutionary for its time.
- Early experiments with sweptback designs in the 1940s influenced modern jet propulsion and aircraft technology.
Physics
- The angle of the wings affects airflow, creating better lift and reducing the likelihood of stalling.
- By angling wings back, engineers can manipulate the pressure distribution over the wing, enhancing flight capabilities.
- The physics of flight relies heavily on the relationship between wing shape, speed, and air resistance, all of which are influenced by sweptback designs.
Pop Culture
- In movies like 'Top Gun', fighter jets with sweptback wings symbolize speed and agility.
- Video games featuring flight simulation often incorporate aircraft with sweptback designs for realism.
- The aesthetic of sweptback wings has influenced the design of various futuristic concepts in science fiction.
Engineering Innovations
- The design has inspired other fields, leading to innovations in automotive and drone technologies.
- Research into variable sweptback wings has explored ways to optimize performance across different flight scenarios.
- Modern drone designs sometimes include sweptback features to enhance speed and efficiency.
Origin of 'sweptback'
The word 'sweptback' is derived from the combination of the past participle 'swept' and the term 'back.' The verb 'sweep' traces its origins to the Middle English 'swepen,' which means to clear away or to move swiftly. This etymological evolution reflects an adaptation in language as technical and design terms emerged during the 20th century, especially with the advent of modern aviation technology. The concept of sweptback design began to gain prominence in the early 1930s, as engineers recognized that angling the wings of aircraft improved their performance. Hence, the term became widely used in both aerodynamics and automotive design, symbolizing innovation and efficiency.