What aerodynamic feature does a swept wing alter in relation to flight speed?

A swept wing design primarily affects the airflow characteristics around the wing as the aircraft approaches higher flight speeds. When a wing is swept back, it changes the effective angle of attack experienced by the wing relative to the airflow, which plays a crucial role in delaying the onset of flow separation and stall at high speeds. This alteration helps to control the flow of air as it meets the leading edge of the wing, allowing for more stability and control.

Additionally, swept wings significantly influence the aircraft's overall performance in relation to subsonic and transonic flight speeds, enabling faster and more efficient performance in these regimes. While it does have implications on lift, drag, and fuel efficiency, the primary aerodynamic function of a swept wing is to manage the airflow characteristics effectively as speed increases.