Tubercle effect

<p>The tubercle effect is a phenomenon where <a href="/facts/Tubercles/P2l35WpL">tubercles</a> or large 'bumps' on the <a href="/facts/Leading_edge/7qs3oRtP">leading edge</a> of an <a href="/facts/Airfoil/2d3l6hKd">airfoil</a> can improve its <a href="/facts/Aerodynamics/Cn6Lnl3H">aerodynamics</a>. The tubercle effect works by channeling flow over the airfoil into more narrow <a href="/facts/Stream/S5he7Cuo">streams</a>, creating higher velocities. Another side effect of these channels is the reduction of flow moving over the <a href="/facts/Wingtip/NYlRnWjt">wingtip</a> and resulting in less <a href="/facts/Parasitic_drag/1FVstxos">parasitic drag</a> due to <a href="/facts/Wingtip_vortices/k7QgNM0K">wingtip vortices</a>. Using <a href="/facts/Computational_model/dq1CR6us">computational modeling</a>, it was determined that the presence of tubercles produces a delay in the angle of attack until stall, thereby increasing maximum <a href="/facts/Lift_(force)/ehQKKaWP">lift</a> and decreasing <a href="/facts/Drag_(physics)/vdl4jF7I">drag</a>. <a href="/facts/Humpback_whales/UJb1KpJb">Humpback whales</a> are the only known organisms to take advantage of the tubercle effect. It is believed that this effect allows them to be much more manoeuvrable in the water, allowing for easier capture of prey. The tubercles on their <a href="/facts/Fin/H2Rjvfo3">fins</a> allow them to do aquatic maneuvers to catch their prey.
</p><p>The tiny hooklets on the fore edge of an <a href="/facts/Owl/ShBp03ph">owl</a>'s wing have a similar effect that contributes to its aerodynamic manoeuvrability and stealth.
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Tubercle effect open-in-new

Tubercle effect