Lift and drag are two fundamental forces that affect the flight of an aircraft. Lift is the upward force that allows an airplane to rise off the ground, generated by the wings as air flows over and under them. The shape of the wings, known as an airfoil, plays a crucial role in creating lift by altering the air pressure around them. Drag, on the other hand, is the resistance an aircraft encounters as it moves through the air. It acts opposite to the direction of flight and is influenced by factors such as the shape of the aircraft and its speed. Balancing lift and drag is essential for efficient flight, allowing pilots to control altitude and speed.