sail theory

Sail theory explains how sails harness wind to propel a boat. When wind hits a sail, it creates pressure differences—similar to how an airplane wing works—that generate lift and thrust. The sail's angle, shape, and position relative to the wind determine how effectively it captures this energy, allowing the boat to move forward and even sail against the wind by tacking. Essentially, sails operate as aerodynamic surfaces that convert wind energy into forward motion through principles of fluid dynamics, enabling efficient and versatile navigation across water.