Final answer:
To predict the wing length of a model airplane, a ratio using the scale factor to convert the actual wingspan to the model's wingspan in inches is used. For a 16-foot airplane with a 1/48 scale factor, the model's wingspan is 4 inches.
Step-by-step explanation:
To predict the wing length of a model based on a scale factor, you must use a ratio that represents the relationship between the actual length and the model length. For instance, if we have an airplane with a wingspan of 16 feet and a scale factor for the model is 1/48, the calculation for the wing span of the model in inches starts by writing the scale factor as 1 foot to 48 feet. Since there are 12 inches in a foot, we multiply the actual wingspan by the scale factor and then by the conversion from feet to inches to find the model's wingspan.
In this scenario, the calculation would be 16 feet × 1/48 × 12 inches/foot, which equals 4 inches. Therefore, the wingspan of the model plane would be 4 inches long. When given free-body diagrams and forces such as gravitation (Fg), wind (Fw), or centripetal force (Fc), interpreting these to make predictions or solve challenge problems involves understanding the equilibrium conditions and applying physics equations appropriately.