What is the formula for calculating lift?

The correct formula for calculating lift is indeed based on the key factors that contribute to lift production in an aircraft's wings. The formula for lift is:

Lift = (Coefficient of lift × Air density × Velocity² × Wing area) / 2.

This equation encapsulates the fundamental principles of aerodynamics. The coefficient of lift represents how efficiently a wing can generate lift at a given angle of attack and flow conditions. Air density is crucial as it affects how many air molecules are available to create lift; the denser the air, the more lift can be generated. Velocity is critical as well; as the speed of the aircraft increases, the lift increases exponentially with the square of the velocity (hence the velocity term is squared in the formula). Finally, wing area is essential because a larger wing area means more surface for airflow and potential lift generation.

Dividing the entire product by 2 is necessary as part of the derivation of this formula from Bernoulli's principle and the principles of fluid dynamics, ensuring the lift is calculated correctly and reflects the actual physical phenomena at play.

The other options misrepresent the formulation by either misplacing factors or omitting necessary elements that contribute to calculating lift accurately.