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Which phenomenon causes increased drag when the Reynolds number exceeds a critical value for airflow around an aircraft wing?

A)Transition to turbulent boundary layer
B)Onset of laminar flow separation
C)Formation of a compression shockwave
D)Decrease in pressure-gradient thickness

💡 Explanation

Exceeding the critical Reynolds number causes transition to a turbulent boundary layer, because this increases momentum transfer and skin friction drag, therefore resulting in larger drag, rather than sustained laminar flow.

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