What happens to airflow when it reaches the critical angle of attack?

When the airflow reaches the critical angle of attack, it begins to separate from the wing. At this angle, the lift generated by the wing is at its maximum, but beyond this point, the smooth airflow over the wing is disrupted. This separation of airflow leads to a loss of lift, causing the wing to stall if the angle continues to increase.

Understanding this concept is essential for pilots, as recognizing the critical angle of attack helps in maintaining control of the aircraft and preventing stalls. While others may suggest that airflow becomes fully attached or that it reaches maximum lift, these states occur before reaching the critical angle. When airflow increases in velocity, it's typically associated with an increase in angle of attack but does not specifically indicate the airflow behavior at the critical angle.