BAvn Bachelor of Aviation Bachelor of Aviation Theory of Flight 3

Question 1

What is the standard definition of 'critical Mach number' (Mcrit)?

Accepted Answer

The freestream Mach number at which airflow over some part of the wing first reaches Mach 1.0

Answer

Mcrit is the lowest freestream Mach number at which local airflow on the wing surface first accelerates to exactly Mach 1.0.

Question 2

During a symmetric pull-up maneuver, which structural limit is the primary concern?

Accepted Answer

Exceeding the positive limit load factor

Answer

A pull-up maneuver increases load factor; exceeding the aircraft's positive limit load factor risks structural damage or failure.

Question 3

What physical explanation accounts for the Bernoulli principle generating lift on a cambered airfoil?

Accepted Answer

The curved upper surface accelerates airflow, reducing static pressure relative to the lower surface

Answer

Camber causes faster flow over the upper surface, reducing static pressure there compared to the lower surface, creating a net upward pressure force.

Question 4

An aircraft experiences 'Mach tuck.' What is the recommended immediate recovery action?

Accepted Answer

Reduce thrust, extend speed brakes, and allow the aircraft to decelerate below Mcrit

Answer

Mach tuck recovery requires slowing the aircraft below Mcrit by reducing thrust and deploying speed brakes, allowing the shockwave to dissipate.

Question 5

Which factor most directly determines the stall speed of an aircraft at a given weight?

Accepted Answer

Maximum coefficient of lift (CLmax) and wing area

Answer

Stall speed is governed by Vs = sqrt(2W / (ρ × S × CLmax)), making wing area and maximum lift coefficient the primary aerodynamic determinants.

BAvn Bachelor of Aviation Practice Test