What defines the centre of pressure on a wing?

The centre of pressure on a wing is defined as the point where the lifting force is effectively considered to act. It is the location on the wing where the total aerodynamic force, which consists of lift and drag, acts. This point's position is crucial for understanding how the lift generated by the wing affects the aircraft's stability and control.

When the flight conditions change, such as variations in angle of attack or airspeed, the centre of pressure can shift. This movement influences the pitching moment around the aircraft's center of gravity, which can impact the aircraft's stability during flight. Proper understanding of the centre of pressure helps pilots anticipate how the aircraft will respond to control inputs and environmental changes.

In contrast, the maximum drag point, the aerodynamic center, and the leading edge do not directly represent where lift acts but rather describe other characteristics of the wing's aerodynamic performance. Understanding the importance of the centre of pressure is vital for both piloting and aerodynamics.