Question

What is the value that maintains minimum power speed of the aircraft?

(a) u/\(\sqrt[4]{3}\)

(b) u/\(\sqrt[3]{3}\)

(c) u^2/\(\sqrt[4]{3}\)

(d) u^2/\(\sqrt[3]{3}\)

The question was asked in unit test.

My question is based upon Climb and Descent Performance with Thrust-Producing Engines topic in chapter Climb and Descent Performance of Aircraft Performance

Answer 1

The correct option is (a) u/\(\sqrt[4]{3}\)

Explanation: The minimum sink rate is attained by flying at a relative airspeed of u/\(\sqrt[4]{3}\). At this airspeed the minimum power speed of aircraft is attained. Flying at this speed will maximize the time of gliding flight.