Theory of Flight Overview

Theory of Flight

• Flight primarily occurs in the troposphere, which is the lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere.
• Typical cruising altitudes for aircraft range from 30,000 to 42,000 feet.
• As altitude increases, temperature generally decreases, impacting aircraft performance.
• The absolute temperature scales, Rankine and Kelvin, start from 273.15 Kelvin (0°C).
• Exposure to radiation increases with altitude; radiation levels are higher closer to the sun.
• The wings of an aircraft feature camber, incorporating leading and trailing edges along with slats and flaps to enhance aerodynamic efficiency.
• Gauge pressure measures pressure relative to atmospheric conditions, while atmospheric pressure is the constant force exerted by the weight of the air surrounding Earth.
• At approximately 8,000 feet, breathable levels of nitrogen and oxygen are maintained; above this altitude, there is a risk of hypoxia after 10-20 minutes without supplemental oxygen.
• Pressure is measured in Pascals, with common atmospheric pressure represented in kilopascals (kPa).
• The mesosphere is noted as the coldest layer of the atmosphere.
• Air density increases when descending into warmer air, influencing aircraft lift and performance.
• Static air pressure changes as aircraft encounter variations in moisture in the atmosphere.
• An increase in altitude generally results in lower air density and pressure, with the potential to create a vacuum effect.
• At high altitudes, the aircraft may require adjustments in power to maintain forward motion due to the change in air density.
• Combined effects of relative humidity increase air density, which can affect aircraft lift and drag.
• Specific wiring standards include blue and white wires for data transmission and purple wires for fiber optics.

The Nature of Flight

• Flight is categorized into two primary types:
  • Lighter than Air (e.g., balloons and airships)
  • Heavier than Air (e.g., airplanes and helicopters)

Composition of the Atmosphere

• Nitrogen constitutes approximately 78% of the atmosphere.
• Oxygen makes up around 21%, with remaining gases including argon and trace elements.