T-6A Aerodynamics Practice Exam

Increasing the aspect ratio of a wing refers to the relationship between its span (the distance from tip to tip) and its average chord (the average width of the wing). A higher aspect ratio, which means a longer and thinner wing, has specific aerodynamic effects.

One of the primary benefits of a higher aspect ratio is the increase in lift. This occurs because a longer wing span allows for a larger effective wing area, which can generate more lift at a given angle of attack. Additionally, a higher aspect ratio typically leads to a more efficient design where the lift-to-drag ratio is improved, meaning that lift is increased while drag is reduced.

Drag reduction happens primarily due to the minimized induced drag, which is a byproduct of lift generation. Induced drag is related to the wingtip vortices that form as air flows over the wing. With a longer span, these vortices are less pronounced, resulting in lower induced drag and allowing the wing to perform more efficiently.

Thus, the combination of increased lift and reduced drag is a significant advantage of increasing the aspect ratio, making this choice aligned with established aerodynamic principles. This understanding is crucial for optimizing wing performance in various flying conditions.