RPC Weather & Micrometeorology for Drone Operations 2

Question 1

What weather phenomenon is most likely to cause a drone to experience a sudden, uncommanded descent during flight?

Accepted Answer

Microburst downdraft

Answer

A microburst produces intense localized downdrafts that can exceed a drone's climb capability, causing sudden uncommanded descent.

Question 2

On a clear night with calm winds, which type of fog is most likely to develop in low-lying areas and river valleys by early morning?

Accepted Answer

Radiation fog

Answer

Radiation fog forms on clear, calm nights when the ground radiates heat away and cools the air near the surface below the dew point.

Question 3

What is the primary reason surface winds are typically lighter and more variable at sunrise compared to mid-afternoon?

Accepted Answer

Less convective mixing to bring down faster upper-level winds

Answer

Daytime solar heating creates convective mixing that transports momentum from faster winds aloft down to the surface, strengthening surface winds.

Question 4

A drone remote pilot notices cumulus clouds building rapidly in the late afternoon. This development most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Increasing convective activity and possible thunderstorm development

Answer

Rapidly growing cumulus clouds in the afternoon signal strong thermal uplift and convective instability, precursors to thunderstorm development.

Question 5

Which wind shear scenario poses the greatest hazard to a small drone operating at 200 feet AGL?

Accepted Answer

Abrupt change of 25 knots within 200 feet of altitude

Answer

An abrupt large change in wind speed or direction within a short altitude band creates severe shear that can instantly overpower a small drone's control authority.

(RPC) Remote Pilot Certificate Practice Test

(RPC) Remote Pilot Certificate Practice Test

RPC Weather & Micrometeorology for Drone Operations 2