Aircraft General Knowledge Flashcards
7 cards from real CPL practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Aircraft General Knowledge flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of a magneto in a reciprocating aircraft engine?
Answer: To generate high-voltage current for ignition independent of the aircraft's electrical system
Magnetos are self-contained ignition systems that generate high-voltage current for spark plugs independently of the aircraft's main electrical system.
Carburetor ice is MOST likely to form when outside air temperature and relative humidity are:
Answer: Temperature between 20°F and 70°F (-7°C to 21°C) with high humidity
Carburetor ice most commonly forms at temperatures between 20°F and 70°F with high relative humidity due to fuel vaporization cooling the carburetor throat.
A constant-speed propeller governor controls propeller blade pitch to:
Answer: Maintain a selected RPM regardless of airspeed or power changes
The propeller governor automatically adjusts blade pitch to maintain the RPM selected by the pilot via the propeller control lever.
Detonation in a reciprocating engine is best described as:
Answer: Uncontrolled, explosive combustion causing excessively high cylinder pressures
Detonation is the uncontrolled, near-instantaneous explosion of the fuel-air charge, generating abnormally high cylinder pressures that can damage pistons and valves.
A turbocharger improves high-altitude performance primarily by:
Answer: Using exhaust gases to compress intake air and maintain manifold pressure
A turbocharger uses exhaust gas energy to drive a compressor, maintaining near-sea-level manifold pressure at altitude and preserving engine power output.
Which condition would MOST likely cause roughness and power loss in a fuel-injected engine (not a carbureted engine)?
Answer: Induction system ice blocking the air intake
Fuel-injected engines are not susceptible to carburetor ice but can suffer induction system ice in the air intake duct, reducing airflow and causing roughness.
If oil pressure drops below the minimum limit in flight, the correct pilot action is to:
Answer: Reduce power and land at the nearest suitable airport as soon as practical
Low oil pressure indicates imminent risk of engine seizure; the pilot should reduce power and divert to the nearest suitable airport immediately.