Question

A UAS loaded with the most rearward center of gravity is _______.

1) Less stable at all speeds
2) More stable at slow speeds
3) More stable at fast speeds

Answer 1

A UAS with the most rearward center of gravity is more stable at fast speeds due to increased effectiveness of stabilizing surfaces, but it is less stable at low speeds due to reduced control authority and increased risk of stalling.

Step-by-step explanation:

A Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) loaded with the most rearward center of gravity tends to be more stable at fast speeds but less stable at low speeds. The center of gravity (CG) is the point where the aircraft's mass is considered to be concentrated and about which it balances. When the CG is located further rearward, the aircraft can become tail-heavy, leading to a reduced stability margin. Stability is a measure of an aircraft's ability to return to its original flight condition after a disturbance. A rearward CG may increase the stability during high-speed flight because it increases the effectiveness of the stabilizing surfaces (like the horizontal stabilizer), but at low speeds, it can lead to insufficient control authority and a tendency to pitch up, which can cause a stall.