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Re: Archaeopteryx feathers and origin of flight based on 11th specimen

Yes, the structural spar tends to sit closer to the leading edge
than the trailing edge of the wing. The mechanical importance of
this for bending and torsional resistance is well understood, and it
does not apply if the leading edge is only slightly shorter than the
trailing surface.


If this is so, what other advantage does asymmetry have? For if
there were no advantage to a slightly asymmetric feather, it seems
difficult to envison the evolutionary path to full asymmetry. (And
no, I dont accept "display function" as an answer here :-)  )

Martin.


                   Priv.-Doz. Dr. Martin Bäker
                   Institut für Werkstoffe
                   Technische Universität Braunschweig
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