An airfoil is a specially shaped structure designed to generate lift when air flows over it. Commonly found in aircraft wings, propellers, and turbines, the airfoil's shape allows it to create a difference in air pressure above and below its surface. This pressure difference is what enables flight and helps vehicles move through the air efficiently. The design of an airfoil typically features a curved upper surface and a flatter lower surface. This shape helps streamline airflow, reducing drag and enhancing performance. Understanding airfoils is essential in fields like aerodynamics and aerospace engineering, where optimizing flight characteristics is crucial for safety and efficiency.