Understanding Aerodynamics and Flight Mechanics

What is the term used for the study of forces acting on an aircraft in flight?

• Hydrodynamics

• Aerodynamics

• Thermodynamics

• Electrodynamics

Answer explanation

The study of forces acting on an aircraft in flight is called aerodynamics. It focuses on how air interacts with the aircraft, which is crucial for understanding flight mechanics.

What opposes thrust in an aircraft?

• Lift

• Drag

• Weight

• Gravity

Answer explanation

In aviation, thrust is the forward force produced by engines. Drag is the aerodynamic resistance that opposes thrust, slowing the aircraft down. Therefore, the correct answer is Drag.

Where is low pressure found in relation to a wing during flight?

• Below the wing

• Above the wing

• At the wingtip

• At the trailing edge

Answer explanation

During flight, low pressure is found above the wing due to the airfoil shape, which causes air to move faster over the top surface, creating a pressure difference that generates lift.

How does an aircraft stall?

• When the airspeed is too high

• When the angle of attack exceeds the critical angle

• When the aircraft is overloaded

• When the flaps are fully extended

Answer explanation

An aircraft stalls when the angle of attack exceeds the critical angle, causing a loss of lift. This can happen regardless of airspeed, weight, or flap position, making the correct answer crucial for understanding stall dynamics.

How can a pilot increase lift to climb to a higher altitude?

• Decrease the angle of attack

• Increase the angle of attack or airspeed

• Reduce airspeed

• Deploy landing gear

Answer explanation

To increase lift for climbing, a pilot can either increase the angle of attack or increase airspeed. Both actions enhance airflow over the wings, generating more lift, which is essential for ascending to higher altitudes.

What is the function of the flaps on an aircraft?

• To increase speed

• To increase lift and drag

• To decrease weight

• To stabilise the aircraft

Answer explanation

The flaps on an aircraft are designed to increase lift and drag during takeoff and landing, allowing the aircraft to fly at slower speeds and improve its performance in these critical phases.

How does aircraft weight reduce during flight?

• By jettisoning cargo

• Due to fuel consumption

• By shedding parts

• Through aerodynamic lift

Answer explanation

Aircraft weight reduces during flight primarily due to fuel consumption. As the aircraft burns fuel, its overall weight decreases, which can improve performance and efficiency.

What are the two types of drag experienced by an aircraft?

• Frictional and gravitational drag

• Induced and parasite drag

• Thermal and mechanical drag

• Static and dynamic drag

Answer explanation

The two types of drag experienced by an aircraft are induced drag, which occurs due to lift generation, and parasite drag, which includes all other forms of drag that do not contribute to lift.

What is an example of parasite drag?

• Drag from the wing's lift

• Drag from the aircraft's fuselage

• Drag from the landing gear

• Drag from the tail fin

Answer explanation

Parasite drag is caused by the shape and surface of the aircraft. Drag from the fuselage is a prime example, as it disrupts airflow and contributes to overall drag, unlike lift-related drag from the wing.

What is ground effect in aviation?

• Increased drag when flying at high altitudes

• Increased lift and reduced drag when flying close to the ground

• Decreased lift when flying over water

• Increased turbulence when flying near mountains

Answer explanation

Ground effect occurs when an aircraft is close to the ground, resulting in increased lift and reduced drag due to the interference of the ground with the airflow around the wings. This enhances performance during takeoff and landing.