Which physical property directly affects the lift generated by an airfoil?

The lift generated by an airfoil is primarily influenced by its camber and overall shape. Camber refers to the curvature of the airfoil, which plays a critical role in creating a pressure difference between the upper and lower surfaces when air flows over the wing. A well-designed camber can enhance the lift characteristics by optimizing airflow, allowing for greater lift at lower speeds and improving performance across various flight conditions.

Additionally, the general shape of the airfoil also significantly impacts lift generation. This includes factors such as thickness, aspect ratio, and the leading and trailing edge design. The shape determines how air moves around the airfoil and affects both lift and drag during flight.

Given that both camber and airfoil shape contribute substantially to lift production, the option indicating both factors is indeed the most accurate choice. This emphasizes the importance of understanding both characteristics when analyzing an airfoil's performance in generating lift.