What happens to leading edge flaps when they are in the "down" position?

When leading edge flaps are in the "down" position, they serve to increase lift by changing the airflow characteristics around the wing. When deployed, these flaps extend from the leading edge of the wing, effectively altering the wing's camber and allowing the wing to operate at higher angles of attack without stalling. This modification in airflow aids in energizing the boundary layer, reducing flow separation, and enhancing lift generation, particularly at lower speeds during takeoff and landing.

The design and functionality of leading edge flaps are crucial in optimizing the aircraft's performance, allowing it to maintain controlled flight characteristics in various phases of operation, especially at lower speeds.