Deformation and vibration of twig-connected single leaf in wind is investigated experimentally.Results showthat the Reynolds number based on wind speed and lengthof leaf blade is a key parameter to the aerodynamic problem.In case the front surface facing the wind and with an increase of Reynolds number,the leaf experiences static deformation,large amplitude and low frequency sway,reconfiguration to delta wing shape,flapping of tips,high frequencyvibration of whole leaf blade,recovery of delta wing shape,and twig-leaf coupling vibration.Abrupt changes from onestate to another occur at critical Reynolds numbers.In casethe back surface facing the wind,the large amplitude andlow frequency sway does not occur,the recovered delta wingshape is replaced by a conic shape,and the critical Reynoldsnumbers of vibrations are higher than the ones corresponding to the case with the front surface facing the wind.Apair of ram-horn vortex is observed behind the delta wingshaped leaf.A single vortex is found downstream of theconic shaped leaf.A lift is induced by the vortex,and thislift helps leaf to adjust position and posture,stabilize bladedistortion and reduce drag and vibration.
