A slot is a space on a computer motherboard that can support an expansion card such as an ISA, PCI, or AGP slot. There are also some computers that come with dedicated slots for memory. This is a great way to increase the performance of your system without having to replace the entire motherboard.

In football, a slot receiver is a wide receiver who lines up pre-snap in between the last line of defense (either the tight end or offensive tackle) and the outside wide receivers. It is this positioning that gives the position its name, but a slot receiver does much more than just fill in between the other two players on the field. They are fast, agile, and must be able to run a variety of routes.

They are becoming more and more popular in the NFL as offenses look to utilize them more frequently. They are smaller and faster than traditional wide receivers, which allows them to stretch the defense vertically on slants and quick outs. Despite their smaller stature, they must be tough enough to absorb contact and strong enough to make plays in traffic. They also must be able to run block well, as they do not usually play directly against defensive backs like their counterparts on the perimeter.

When it comes to flying, a slot is the time in which an airplane can take off from a specific runway. This is determined by a number of factors, including airport congestion, weather, and staffing levels at the air traffic control center.

Slot is also a term used in the gambling industry, often for the percentage of money that can be expected to be returned to the player over time. Many people believe that if they follow certain rituals when playing slot machines, they can improve their chances of winning. This is not true, however, as all casino games are governed by random number generators. If you want to improve your chances of winning at a slot machine, try choosing one with a higher RTP.

The term ‘slot’ can also be used for a physical part of an aircraft, such as an engine, propeller, or landing gear. This is because these parts are designed to be inserted into a particular hole or slot in the plane’s body, with specific dimensions and shapes. It is important that these parts are correctly fitted in order to avoid problems with flight, such as unbalanced forces or insufficient clearance. This is why it is essential to consult the aircraft manufacturer before installing any parts. A dimensionally incorrect slot could cause damage or even a crash. In some cases, it is possible to fix such problems, but in other cases the best option is to install a new part. This is particularly common for older airplanes where the original parts are no longer available. A new part would need to be custom-made for the aircraft, which can be quite expensive.