'Low aspect ratio results in greater downwash, due to increased vortex strength. How on earth does a wing "trap" air????????'
You confuse 'trap' with your mistaken conclusion re its definition. (in my opinion)
You are likely concluding: "trap and hold". To sequester airflow means to enclose, or to restrict it; there is no rate described. Ram Air is fhe very definition of sequester, or 'restrict'.
I cannot speak for you, but my impression is that you reject any latitude in nomenclature, not helpful, imo.
Perhaps an example will help me. If an instantaneous image of airflow could be shown that demonstrates the zones of pressure the flow inhabits, one could say that for that instant, each "zone" shows 'trapped' air. Of course the flow is transient, or it would not be 'flow'. But without the ability to shepherd airflow, there would be no lift.
Is there a word you can suggest that describes these zones of pressure better than trapped? Screw trap, call it ________ . (contain) ?
Nothing can be compressed without somehow 'trapping' it. imho.
Last edited by Lyman; 1st December 2012 at 21:03.