What is the chord line of a wing?

The chord line of a wing is defined as an imaginary line that connects the leading edge to the trailing edge of the wing. This line represents the basic profile of the wing when viewed from the side, serving as a reference to understand the wing's aerodynamics. The chord line is crucial for analyzing lift and drag characteristics, as it helps determine the angle of attack when the wing is in motion through the air.

Although surface area, pivot points, and distances from one edge to another are all related to wing structure, they do not accurately define the concept of the chord line as it specifically pertains to the direct line that indicates the wing's aerodynamic shape. The leading edge is the front part of the wing, and the trailing edge is the back part, making the chord line important for both pilots and engineers in designing and flying aircraft effectively.