Free CGI Flight Theory & Principles Questions and Answers

Question 1

What principle explains how lift is generated on a wing?

Accepted Answer

Bernoulli’s Principle

Answer

Bernoulli's Principle explains that as the speed of a fluid increases, its pressure decreases. An aircraft wing is shaped as an airfoil, causing air to flow faster over its curved upper surface than its flatter lower surface. This speed difference creates a pressure differential, with lower pressure above the wing and higher pressure below, generating the upward force of lift.

Question 2

What are the four primary forces acting on an aircraft in flight?

Accepted Answer

Weight, drag, lift, and thrust

Answer

The four primary forces acting on an aircraft in flight are lift, weight, thrust, and drag. Lift is the upward force opposing weight, which is the downward force due to gravity. Thrust is the forward force generated by the engine, counteracting drag, which is the resistance caused by air opposing the aircraft's motion.

Question 3

How does increasing angle of attack affect lift?

Accepted Answer

Increases lift until stall point

Answer

Increasing the angle of attack generally increases lift because it directs more air downwards, creating a greater pressure differential across the wing. However, this increase is only effective up to the critical angle of attack. Beyond this point, the airflow separates from the wing's upper surface, leading to a sudden and significant loss of lift known as a stall.

Question 4

What is the role of ailerons during flight?

Accepted Answer

They manage roll control

Answer

Ailerons are movable control surfaces located on the trailing edge of each wing. They work differentially, meaning one aileron moves up while the other moves down. This creates an imbalance in lift between the wings, causing the aircraft to roll around its longitudinal axis, which is essential for turning.

Question 5

What is drag in aviation?

Accepted Answer

Air resistance opposing motion

Answer

Drag is the aerodynamic force that opposes an aircraft's motion through the air. It is primarily caused by the friction between the aircraft's surface and the air, as well as pressure differences created by the aircraft's shape. This resistance must be overcome by thrust for the aircraft to maintain or increase speed.

CGI - Certified Ground Instructor Practice Test

CGI - Certified Ground Instructor Practice Test

Free CGI Flight Theory & Principles Questions and Answers