Module 11: Aeroplane Aerodynamics, Structures and Systems24 Aug 2026

slat slot vortex generator confusing me

Exam question

A movable panel attached to the leading edge of a wing which changes wing camber and forms a slot when activated is called a:

A.spoiler
B.slatCorrect
C.krueger flap

Explanation

A slat is a movable leading-edge panel that changes camber and forms a slot when activated.

Faisal A.

asked · 24 Aug 2026

Author

keep mixing these up in practice test. as i understand it - slot is just the gap, slat is the moving panel on leading edge that opens and makes the slot, vortex generator is small separate fin that just re-energises the boundary layer, not making any slot at all. is this correct or am i missing something

Discussion1

Rui

3 Sep 2026

yeah you've got it right. slot is just the gap, slat is the actual moving panel that opens up and creates that gap when it extends, and vortex generator is a totally separate small fixed fin that just stirs up the airflow to keep it attached, no slot involved at all with those. easy to mix up on paper since they're all doing a similar-ish job (keeping the airflow attached at high AoA) but they're 3 different things