Understanding the Pitot Static System

What is the primary function of the pitot-static system in an aircraft?

• To measure fuel levels

• To provide information to basic flight instruments

• To control the aircraft's engine

• To manage the aircraft's navigation system

Answer explanation

The pitot-static system measures airspeed and altitude, providing essential data to basic flight instruments like the airspeed indicator and altimeter, making 'To provide information to basic flight instruments' the correct choice.

Which of the following instruments relies on air pressure for its readings?

• Attitude Indicator

• Heading Indicator

• Altimeter

• Turn Coordinator

Answer explanation

The altimeter measures altitude by comparing the current air pressure to a standard atmospheric pressure. Unlike the other instruments listed, it directly relies on air pressure for its readings.

What are the three types of air pressure involved in the pitot-static system?

• Static, Dynamic, and Total Pressure

• Atmospheric, Hydraulic, and Pneumatic Pressure

• Static, Kinetic, and Potential Pressure

• Dynamic, Hydraulic, and Total Pressure

Answer explanation

The correct answer is Static, Dynamic, and Total Pressure. In a pitot-static system, static pressure is the ambient pressure, dynamic pressure is related to the aircraft's speed, and total pressure is the sum of both.

What is static pressure also known as?

• Dynamic Pressure

• Atmospheric Pressure

• Total Pressure

• Kinetic Pressure

Answer explanation

Static pressure is commonly referred to as atmospheric pressure, which is the pressure exerted by the weight of the atmosphere. It differs from dynamic, total, and kinetic pressures, which relate to fluid motion.

How does static pressure change with altitude?

• It increases with altitude

• It remains constant

• It decreases with altitude

• It fluctuates randomly

Answer explanation

Static pressure decreases with altitude due to the thinning of the atmosphere. As you rise, there are fewer air molecules above you, leading to lower pressure.

What does dynamic pressure depend on?

• Altitude and temperature

• Speed and air density

• Humidity and wind direction

• Aircraft weight and balance

Answer explanation

Dynamic pressure is defined as the kinetic energy per unit volume of a fluid and depends on speed (velocity) and air density. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Speed and air density'.

What is total pressure also known as?

• Static Pressure

• Dynamic Pressure

• Pitot Pressure

• Atmospheric Pressure

Answer explanation

Total pressure is also known as Pitot Pressure, as it measures the sum of static and dynamic pressures in a fluid flow, typically used in aerodynamics and fluid mechanics.

Which instrument is fed by both the pitot tube and the static port?

• Altimeter

• Vertical Speed Indicator

• Airspeed Indicator

• Attitude Indicator

Answer explanation

The Airspeed Indicator uses both the pitot tube, which measures dynamic pressure, and the static port, which measures static pressure, to calculate airspeed. This makes it the correct choice among the options.

Where is the pitot tube typically located on small aircraft?

• Under the wings

• On the tail

• Inside the cockpit

• On the landing gear

Answer explanation

The pitot tube is typically located under the wings of small aircraft to measure airspeed accurately. This position allows it to receive undisturbed airflow, which is essential for precise readings.

What is the purpose of the heating system in a pitot tube?

• To increase airspeed

• To prevent icing

• To reduce drag

• To improve fuel efficiency

Answer explanation

The heating system in a pitot tube is designed to prevent icing, which can obstruct airflow and affect pressure readings. This ensures accurate measurements of airspeed, especially in cold conditions.