Aerodynamics: Wingtip Design and Drag Measurements

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What is the primary purpose of altering the shape of a wing tip?

To improve wing aspect ratio

To reduce induced drag (correct)

To increase weight

To increase lift

What is used to determine the forces on a model during a wind tunnel test?

Velocity sensor

Wind flow meter

Force balance (correct)

Air pressure gauge

What is a benefit of using external balances in a wind tunnel?

Reduced model weight

No interference in wind flow

Easy model orientation change

High flexibility in model testing (correct)

What is the purpose of a wind tunnel test?

To measure drag on a model Signup and view all the answers

What is a common method of mounting a model in a wind tunnel?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What type of instrumentation is used to measure the forces on a model?

Force balance Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of increasing the aspect ratio of a wing on induced drag?

It decreases the induced drag Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of winglets in reducing induced drag?

To generate a small forward force Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of having a higher lift to weight ratio in certain maneuvers?

It allows the lift force to be greater than the aircraft weight Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of tip vortices on the wing's performance?

They create a rearward tilt to the lift force Signup and view all the answers

How do wing end plates reduce induced drag?

By restricting the tip vortices Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of using tip tanks in reducing induced drag?

They have a similar beneficial effect to an end plate Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of induced drag?

Wing tip vortices Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of doubling the indicated air speed on parasite drag?

It will increase by four times Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of de-icing and anti-icing devices on an aircraft?

To reduce airframe contamination Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between wing aspect ratio and induced drag?

Higher aspect ratio decreases induced drag Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a drag minimization technique?

Streamlining the airframe Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of a higher lift-to-weight ratio on an aircraft?

Improved climb performance Signup and view all the answers