Relating to the interaction between aerodynamic forces and the flexible structure of an aircraft, which can cause the plane to bend and flex in flight.
Combining aero- (air) and elastic (able to return to original shape). This technical term emerged in the 20th century aerospace engineering as planes became faster and lighter, making flexibility effects more pronounced.
Aeroelastic effects are why jet wings flutter and bend during flight—engineers discovered that air doesn't just push on rigid objects, it engages in a kind of dance with flexible structures, sometimes dangerously!
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