DESCENT

#1. Two identical aeroplanes at different masses are descending at idle thrust. Which of the following statements correctly describes their descent characteristics?

• AAt a given angle of attack, both the vertical and the forward speed are greater for the heavier aeroplane.
• BThere is no difference between the descent characteristics of the two aeroplanes.
• CAt a given angle of attack the heavier aeroplane will always glide further than the lighter aeroplane.
• DAt a given angle of attack the lighter aeroplane will always glide further than the heavier aeroplane.

#2. In a steady descending flight equilibrium of forces acting on the aeroplane is given by: (T=Thrust, D = Drag, W=Weight, descent angle = GAMMA)

• AT+D=-W sin GAMMA
• BT+W sin GAMMA = D
• CT - W sin GAMMA = D
• DT -D =W sin GAMMA

#3. Which of the following combinations has an effect on the angle of decent in a glide? (Ignore compressibility effects).

• AConfiguration and mass.
• BConfiguration and angle of attack.
• CMass and altitude.
• DAltitude and configuration.