What does the term "induced drag" refer to?

Induced drag specifically refers to the drag that arises as a byproduct of lift generation. When an aircraft generates lift, especially at lower speeds and higher angles of attack, the airflow over the wings creates a pressure difference between the upper and lower surfaces. This difference leads to the formation of wingtip vortices, which are spiral patterns of rotating air. These vortices result in what is known as induced drag, as they affect the airflow around the wing and contribute to the overall drag the aircraft experiences.

Induced drag is most prominent during lower airspeeds and higher angles of attack, where lift is maximized, and it decreases as speed increases, reflecting the relationship between induced drag and lift production. In contrast, drag resulting from velocity, friction, and air density relate to other types of drag. Understanding induced drag is crucial for pilots when considering aircraft performance during various phases of flight, particularly during climbs and takeoff.