• gravitas_deficiency@sh.itjust.works
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    19 hours ago

    Contrails are generated by condensation of water vapor in engine exhaust. They’re not caused by wingtip vortices. All powered aircraft (besides electric ones) will generate contrails under the appropriate conditions. Contrail is in fact a contraction of “condensation trail”.

    • Miles O'Brien@startrek.website
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      14 hours ago

      That’s why I specified or wingtip vortex.

      In some situations you can see a trail behind a wingtip that can persist. although doesn’t leave the huge vapor cloud that lingers for hours, I have heard plenty of people conspiracy nuts refer to them as “Chem trails” right along with the actual contrail. Living near an airport, you get all kinds of crazy.