How is the B-2 Bomber different from other planes, and why is it shaped so differently?

Question

How is the B-2 Bomber different from other planes, and why is it shaped so differently?

Answer 1

It is a stealth aircraft that's specifically designed to reflect radar waves and is virtually invisible to radar.

Answer 2

Both the shape, and the outer material used (RAM, or Radar Absorbing Material) render it a small radar signature. The shape deflects the radar beams so less returns to the radar receiver, and the surface material absorbs much of the signal.

Also, the intake is buried deep inside the fuselage, so the whirling blades are less detectable to radar.

The exhaust is also buried, mounted on top of the fuselage, and cooled to reduce the heat signature.

The canopy also has a gold coating, to reduce radar signals from the cockpit.

Answer 3

The B-2 spirit stealth bomber was made to be looked like a bat.But the b-2 is stealth so that means it cant be seen on radar and the b-2 is not very loud unit it get in front of you and it is such a large plane that can fly for days!thats cool right??

Answer 4

It is differently designed for use as a stealth bomber. It is more flat and aerodynamic and thus more difficult to see than a normal bomber as well as having integrated stealth technology that makes it difficult to locate, track, and attack. They are used for high-priority targets in which stealth approach and retreat is needed. They're highly automated and manned by two or three pilots so that they can rotate positions and rest. The B-2 can bomb 16 targets on one pass, making it efficient and deadly. Does that help?

Answer 5

Of all the great answers posted before mine, one point only is only touched upon.  The B-2's design is a lifting wing.  The whole aircraft produces lift.  In a conventional aircraft, the fuselage adds a weight penalty, creates drag, but produces virtually no lift.  The is true with the rudder.  Some lift is produced by the elevators mounted on the rear of the fuselage.  All these components have weight, create drag, but do not contribute to lift.  In contrast, the B-2 is designed so the entire aircraft produces lift without weight penalty.  

The lifting wing is a concept that goes back 60 plus years ago.  See below for a list of flying wing aircraft.

Answer 6

it is a stealth bomber, it uses its unique shape to let radar bounce off it in a way that it won't go back to the receiver, and a special black paint to adsorb the signal, so basically its shape is to minimize its radar footprint, even the intakes and nozzle are unique to reduce the footprint, and of course covered bomb bays

Answer 7

It is different in that it can't be detected on radar.  That way it can fly into enemy territory and they don't know it is there...hence the mission (bombing) goes off without problems.  The wing shape has mostly to do with the above!!