Basic Aerodynamics Quiz

What is the primary upward force acting on an aircraft during flight?

• Thrust

• Lift

Answer explanation

The primary upward force acting on an aircraft during flight is lift. Lift is generated by the wings as air flows over and under them, allowing the aircraft to rise and stay in the air.

Which of the following factors does NOT affect the drag coefficient?

• Engine power

• Airfoil shape

Answer explanation

Engine power does not influence the drag coefficient, which is primarily determined by factors like airfoil shape and surface roughness. Thus, the correct answer is 'Engine power'.

What happens to lift when the angle of attack increases?

• It increases until a critical angle is reached

• It remains constant

Answer explanation

As the angle of attack increases, lift also increases due to greater airflow deflection. However, this increase continues only until a critical angle is reached, beyond which lift decreases and stall occurs.

In steady straight and level flight, which of the following equations is true?

• Thrust = Weight

• Lift = Weight and Thrust = Drag

Answer explanation

In steady straight and level flight, the forces are balanced. Lift must equal weight to maintain altitude, and thrust must equal drag to maintain speed. Therefore, the correct equation is Lift = Weight and Thrust = Drag.

What is the effect of increasing weight on climb performance?

• It improves climb performance

• It decreases climb performance

Answer explanation

Increasing weight negatively impacts climb performance because it requires more power to lift the additional mass, leading to reduced ascent rates and efficiency.

What is the maximum range speed achieved at?

• Minimum lift

• Minimum drag

Answer explanation

The maximum range speed is achieved at minimum drag because this condition allows the aircraft to travel the farthest distance with the least resistance, optimizing fuel efficiency and performance.

Which of the following describes the relationship between thrust and drag during a climb?

• Thrust must be less than drag

• Thrust must be greater than drag

Answer explanation

During a climb, thrust must be greater than drag to overcome the resistance and gain altitude. If thrust were less than drag, the aircraft would not be able to climb effectively.

What is the primary purpose of flaps during landing?

• To increase drag

• To stabilize the aircraft

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of flaps during landing is to increase drag, which helps to slow down the aircraft and allows for a steeper descent angle without increasing speed, enhancing control during the landing phase.

What is the absolute ceiling of an aircraft?

• The altitude at which the maximum rate of climb is zero

• The maximum altitude the aircraft can reach under its own power

Answer explanation

The absolute ceiling of an aircraft is defined as the altitude at which it can no longer climb, meaning the maximum rate of climb is zero. This indicates the limit of its performance under its own power.

What is the service ceiling for a piston-engine aircraft defined as?

• The altitude at which it can perform a controlled descent

• The altitude at which its maximum rate of climb is 100 ft/min

Answer explanation

The service ceiling for a piston-engine aircraft is defined as the altitude where its maximum rate of climb decreases to 100 ft/min. This indicates the limit of its performance in climbing.