What part of the airfoil is designed to encounter airflow first?

The leading edge of an airfoil is specifically designed to encounter airflow first. This part is critical in determining how the airfoil interacts with the surrounding air as it moves through it. The shape and design of the leading edge affect the airflow patterns, influencing factors such as lift, drag, and overall aerodynamic efficiency.

When air flows over the leading edge, it splits into two streams, one moving over the top of the airfoil and the other below it. The characteristics of the leading edge, such as its radius and angle of attack, are essential for ensuring smooth airflow, helping to delay flow separation, which is crucial in maintaining lift performance.

In contrast, the trailing edge is where the airflow reattaches after passing over the airfoil, and it plays a different role in lift and drag characteristics. The camber refers to the curvature of the airfoil, which influences the lift generated, but it does not encounter the airflow first. Similarly, the lift surface, while important in generating lift, is not a specific part like the leading edge, as it encompasses the entire upper surface of the airfoil. Thus, the leading edge is the correct choice for the part of the airfoil that faces the airflow initially.