Which device increases drag to enable a steeper descent?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $25.99Unlock all

Prepare for the Aircraft Characteristics Test. Utilize our quizzes with multiple-choice questions, detailed explanations, and hints to enhance your learning. Ace your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which device increases drag to enable a steeper descent?

Explanation:
Spoilers act as airbrakes on the wings. When they are deployed, they disrupt the smooth airflow over the wing, reducing lift and increasing drag. That combination lets the airplane descend more steeply without gaining speed, which is exactly what you want for a controlled, steeper approach. Flaps also create drag, but their main job is to increase lift at lower speeds to allow safer takeoffs and landings; they're not primarily used to force a steeper descent. Ailerons and rudder control roll and yaw, not descent rate or drag, so they aren’t the right tool for this purpose. So the device best at increasing drag to enable a steeper descent is the spoiler.

Spoilers act as airbrakes on the wings. When they are deployed, they disrupt the smooth airflow over the wing, reducing lift and increasing drag. That combination lets the airplane descend more steeply without gaining speed, which is exactly what you want for a controlled, steeper approach.

Flaps also create drag, but their main job is to increase lift at lower speeds to allow safer takeoffs and landings; they're not primarily used to force a steeper descent. Ailerons and rudder control roll and yaw, not descent rate or drag, so they aren’t the right tool for this purpose.

So the device best at increasing drag to enable a steeper descent is the spoiler.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy