CPL Aerodynamics 4

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a vortex generator on an aircraft wing?

Accepted Answer

To re-energize the boundary layer and delay flow separation

Answer

Vortex generators create small vortices that mix high-energy air from the free stream into the boundary layer, delaying separation and stall.

Question 2

Which statement about the boundary layer is correct?

Accepted Answer

Turbulent boundary layers are more resistant to separation than laminar ones

Answer

Turbulent boundary layers have higher momentum and better resist adverse pressure gradients, making them more resistant to separation despite higher friction.

Question 3

What is the speed at which the induced drag equals the parasite drag known as?

Accepted Answer

All of the above

Answer

The speed where induced and parasite drag are equal corresponds to maximum L/D ratio (best glide speed, Vmd), all describing the same condition.

Question 4

Accelerated stalls are dangerous primarily because they occur at:

Accepted Answer

Higher airspeeds than the published 1-G stall speed

Answer

Increased load factor in turns or pull-ups raises the stall speed, meaning an accelerated stall can occur at much higher airspeeds than in level flight.

Question 5

What aerodynamic effect does wing sweep have on stall characteristics?

Accepted Answer

It causes tip stall before root stall, worsening pitch-up tendency

Answer

Swept wings promote outboard (tip) stall before inboard stall due to spanwise flow toward the tips, causing a dangerous pitch-up at stall.

(CPL) Commercial Pilot Licence Practice Test

(CPL) Commercial Pilot Licence Practice Test

CPL Aerodynamics 4