Quiz on Winglets

What is the primary purpose of winglets on modern jet aircraft?

• To decrease the aircraft's weight

• To improve the aircraft's aesthetics

• To reduce vortex induced drag

• To increase the aircraft's speed

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of winglets on modern jet aircraft is to reduce vortex induced drag. They help minimize the turbulence created at the wingtips, improving fuel efficiency and overall performance.

Who is credited with the invention of winglets suitable for modern high-speed subsonic jets?

• Gates Learjet

• R. T. Whitcomb

• Aviation Partners

• Boeing

Answer explanation

R. T. Whitcomb is credited with the invention of winglets that enhance the performance of modern high-speed subsonic jets, significantly improving fuel efficiency and reducing drag.

What is the effect of wing-tip vortex on an aircraft?

• It enhances stability

• It increases lift

• It decreases drag

• It reduces fuel efficiency

Answer explanation

Wing-tip vortices create drag due to induced turbulence, which can lead to increased fuel consumption.

What is one of the benefits of winglets?

• They increase passenger capacity

• They reduce maintenance costs

• They allow for faster takeoff speeds

• They improve fuel burn

Answer explanation

One of the benefits of winglets is that they improve fuel burn by reducing drag during flight, which leads to better fuel efficiency. This makes them a valuable addition to aircraft design.

What happens to a light aircraft if it passes through the vortex left by a heavy jet?

• It gains altitude rapidly

• It can be flipped over and crash

• It experiences no effect

• It speeds up

Answer explanation

A light aircraft can be severely affected by the wake turbulence created by a heavy jet. This turbulence can cause the lighter aircraft to lose control, potentially flipping it over and leading to a crash.

Which aircraft manufacturer was the first to implement winglets on a commercial airliner?

• McDonnell Douglas

• Lockheed Martin

• Boeing

• Airbus

Answer explanation

Boeing was the first aircraft manufacturer to implement winglets on a commercial airliner, specifically on the 737 model in the 1980s, enhancing fuel efficiency and performance.

How do winglets contribute to the environmental impact of aviation?

• By reducing carbon emissions

• By decreasing passenger comfort

• By increasing noise pollution

• By increasing fuel consumption

Answer explanation

Winglets help reduce drag on aircraft wings, leading to improved fuel efficiency. This efficiency translates to lower fuel consumption and, consequently, reduced carbon emissions, making them beneficial for the environment.

What aerodynamic phenomenon do winglets help to mitigate?

• Form drag

• Wave drag

• Parasitic drag

• Lift-induced drag

Answer explanation

Winglets help to mitigate lift-induced drag, which occurs due to the formation of vortices at the wingtips. By reducing these vortices, winglets enhance aerodynamic efficiency and improve overall performance.