Forces of Flight

Front

What is the force of flight that pulls an aircraft upward?

Back

Lift is the upward force that allows an aircraft to rise into the air.

Front

What do we call the force that pushes an aircraft forward?

Back

Thrust is the forward force that propels an aircraft.

Front

What is the force that opposes the motion of an aircraft through the air?

Back

Drag is the resistance force that slows down an aircraft.

Front

What is the force that pulls an aircraft down towards the Earth?

Back

Weight is the force of gravity acting on the aircraft.

Front

What happens when an aircraft descends?

Back

When an aircraft descends, it is going down before it lands.

Front

What is the opposite of ascend?

Back

Descend is the opposite of ascend, meaning to go down.

Front

What is an example of lift in action?

Back

When a bird spreads its wings and flies upward, it is using lift.

Front

How does thrust help an airplane?

Back

Thrust helps an airplane to move forward and gain speed for takeoff.

Front

What can increase drag on an aircraft?

Back

Factors like shape, speed, and surface area can increase drag.

Front

What is the relationship between lift and weight?

Back

Lift must be greater than weight for an aircraft to rise.