What does 'camber' refer to in the context of an airfoil?

In the context of an airfoil, 'camber' refers specifically to the asymmetry between the top and bottom surfaces of the airfoil. This design feature is critical because it influences the lift characteristics of the wing. An airfoil with a greater camber typically generates more lift at a given angle of attack compared to a symmetrical airfoil. The shape of the camber affects airflow around the wing, increasing the velocity of air over the upper surface and creating lower pressure compared to the lower surface, resulting in lift.

While symmetry relates to the design of the airfoil, thickness refers to how thick the airfoil is but does not inherently speak to the lift characteristics influenced by camber. The angle of attack, while crucial to lift generation, is separate from the shape and design elements that define camber. Understanding camber is vital for pilots, as it helps in predicting the performance and behavior of the airfoil during flight.