Kármán-Tsien theory

Kármán-Tsien theory is a framework in aerodynamics that explains how aircraft behave at very high speeds, particularly as they approach the speed of sound. Developed by Theodore von Kármán and others, it addresses the effects of compressibility—how air density changes with speed—on lift and drag. The theory helps engineers predict airflow characteristics around wings and fuselages in transonic and supersonic flight, enabling the design of more efficient and safer aircraft. By understanding these aerodynamic changes, the theory aids in optimizing performance and stability during high-speed flight.