What is the name of the angle between the chord line of an airfoil and the relative wind?

The angle between the chord line of an airfoil and the relative wind is known as the angle of attack. This angle is crucial in aerodynamic studies because it directly affects the lift generated by the airfoil. As the angle of attack increases, lift generally increases up to a certain point, beyond which airflow may separate from the wing surface, leading to a stall.

Understanding the angle of attack is essential for pilots and engineers because it influences aircraft performance, particularly during takeoffs, landings, and maneuvering. Proper management of the angle of attack helps in optimizing lift and maintaining control of the aircraft. It is a fundamental concept in aerodynamics that helps predict the behavior of an airfoil in flight.

In contrast, other terms like angle of incidence refer to a fixed structural angle usually related to the wing's setup on the fuselage rather than the dynamic interaction between the wing and the oncoming air. The pitch angle relates more to the aircraft's nose orientation in relation to the horizon, while the sideslip angle describes the aircraft's movement in a lateral direction relative to the airflow. Each of these angles plays an important role in flight dynamics but does not define the relationship in question regarding the airfoil's chord line and the relative wind.