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Hi Jason,
The explanation of Lift Induced Drag is still a little confusing. "Induced drag is a byproduct of lift and varies inversely to the square of airspeed." This can be interpreted as an increase in lift equals an increase in drag. Also, and increase in airspeed equals and increase in lift. Therefore an increase in airspeed equates to an increase in drag. This is not true for Induced drag but, is true for parasite drag.

I think it's better to say Induced drag is a byproduct of the redirected air or Angle of Attack. At higher air speeds, Angle of Attack is decreased, and Induced drag is decreased(1/V squared). As we reduce airspeed, if we want to maintain the same total lift, we need to increase the Angle of Attack. This increase in Angle of Attack increases the angle of deflection. More deflection more Induced Drag. Also, the increase in Pressure hitting the bottom of the wing creates a greater differential to the top of the wing, contributing to greater wingtip vortices as they try to spill over.

I hope I was able to express my thoughts. I'm still trying to get a grasp of lift and be able to convey it. Your input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Paul

I like that Paul. I think that's a neat way of explaining it. I wonder how new students might take to it ... I'll field test it and let you know!

thx,
Jason

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