Student Pilot Basic Aerodynamics

Question 1

What is the primary force that opposes gravity in flight?

Accepted Answer

Lift

Answer

Lift is generated by the wings and opposes the force of gravity, allowing the aircraft to stay aloft.

Question 2

Which component of an aircraft primarily controls pitch?

Accepted Answer

Elevator

Answer

The elevator, part of the horizontal stabilizer, controls the pitch or up-and-down movement of the aircraft’s nose.

Question 3

What happens when the angle of attack exceeds the critical angle?

Accepted Answer

Stall occurs

Answer

Exceeding the critical angle of attack results in a stall, where lift dramatically decreases.

Question 4

Which force acts in the opposite direction of thrust?

Accepted Answer

Drag

Answer

Drag is the aerodynamic force that opposes thrust and slows the aircraft down.

Question 5

What is the function of a wing’s camber?

Accepted Answer

Generate lift through airflow

Answer

Camber refers to the curvature of the wing, which helps create pressure differences that generate lift.

(SPC) Student Pilot Certificate Practice Test