Thanks for all the interesting and well thought-out replies, everyone.
I figured my original question had a pretty complex answer, but for now, I'll settle with the basic answer that both of my initial "explanations" (though my understanding was not completely accurate; thanks for the clearifications) for how the control surfaces work come into play, as was indicated in the initial replies of this thread.
Quote:
Originally Posted by B767Driver  Now having said that, as you begin your flying lessons, understanding detailed aerodynamic principles won't be very important. Basic concepts will be just fine for now. If you don't feel you have a master's level understanding of aerodynamics...don't let it bother you. |
That sounds like good advice and I don't plan to get too infatuated with the in-depth aerodynamics theories too soon. I do find it all rather interesting though. But as I said, I'll settle for basic explanations for now.
This thread seemed to have evolved into a discussion of the theories of how lift is produced, which is fine with me because I find it all really interesting. Another question that had been brewing in my mind was brought up at some point in the discussion:
why does the air over the upper curved surface of a cambered wing have to travel faster than the air flowing underneath the flatter surface of the wing? Furthermore, how is lift produced from a symmetrical airfoil? I guess circulation theory sort of answers those questions.
Thanks for satisfying some of my curiosity everyone.