The L/D ratio at a 2° angle of attack is approximately the same as the L/D ratio for which angle of attack?

The lift-to-drag ratio (L/D ratio) is a crucial metric in aerodynamics that reflects the efficiency of an airfoil or an aircraft in generating lift compared to the drag force it experiences. At a very low angle of attack, such as 2°, the L/D ratio is typically high because the airflow is smooth and attached to the wing surface; there is minimal drag.

As the angle of attack increases, the L/D ratio changes due to variations in lift generation and the onset of drag increase due to effects like flow separation. However, for many aircraft, there exists a point—often in the moderate range of angles of attack—where the L/D ratio can stabilize or show similar values due to the balance of lift and drag forces.

In this case, the L/D ratio at 2° aligns closely with that observed at approximately 16.5° angle of attack. At this angle, airflow over the wings remains mostly attached, and while lift begins to increase steadily, drag may also rise, but the relative efficiency can still allow for a comparable L/D ratio. This understanding illustrates the importance of the angle of attack in aerodynamics and how, despite a significant change in lift demand, the efficiency of the airfoil can remain surprisingly