In aerodynamics, an elliptical lift distribution refers to a specific type of lift distribution along the span of an airfoil or wing. It is an ideal lift distribution that results in minimum induced drag for a given amount of lift. An elliptical lift distribution is known for its aerodynamic efficiency since it minimizes induced drag, which is the drag created by the lift itself. Induced drag is directly related to the lift distribution, and the elliptical shape results in the least amount of induced drag for a given lift.
- is the lift distribution (lift per unit span) at a specific location along the wing span,
- is the air density of the freestream flow (far away from the airfoil or wing),
- is the freestream velocity (constant velocity far away from the airfoil or wing),
- is the maximum circulation (strength of the circulation distribution),
- is the span of the airfoil or wing,
- is the distance from the centerline of the airfoil (positive when measured towards the wingtip).