Final answer:
In aviation, wing loading is the gross weight divided by wing surface area, affecting the aircraft's lift capabilities. Power loading is the gross weight divided by horsepower, impacting acceleration and climb rate. Span loading would be the gross weight divided by wingspan and is associated with efficiency and induced drag.
Step-by-step explanation:
The definitions in the realm of aviation for wing loading, power loading, and span loading are as follows:
- Wing loading is correctly defined as the aircraft's gross weight divided by the wing surface area. It influences how much lift the aircraft can generate. Higher wing loading typically means the aircraft can be more maneuverable, but it will require a higher takeoff speed and distance, and it might have a higher landing speed and distance due to reduced lift.
- Power loading refers to the ratio of the aircraft's gross weight divided by its horsepower (or engine power). This affects the aircraft's acceleration and its climb rate. A lower power loading means the aircraft can accelerate faster and has a better rate of climb.
- Span loading, although less commonly discussed, would be the aircraft's gross weight divided by its wingspan. High span loading can indicate higher efficiency, but it also leads to more induced drag.
However, option (d) is incorrect because wing loading is not defined by gross weight divided by engine thrust; that concept does not describe a recognized aviation term. Additionally, engine thrust, not wing loading, generally affects aircraft stability and control characteristics.