Question

The biggest advantage of an inline engine is that it allows the aircraft to be designed with a narrow frontal area for low drag

a. true
b. false

Answer 1

The given statement The biggest advantage of an inline engine is indeed that it allows the aircraft to be designed with a narrow frontal area for low drag is true (option A).

Step-by-step explanation:

The design of an aircraft's engine configuration plays a crucial role in determining its aerodynamic efficiency. In an inline engine configuration, the cylinders are arranged in a straight line along the aircraft's fuselage. This design allows for a streamlined and narrow frontal area, minimizing drag. Drag is a force that opposes an aircraft's forward motion, and reducing it is essential for fuel efficiency and overall performance thus the statement is true (option A).

The advantage of a narrow frontal area can be further understood by considering the drag coefficient (CD) in aerodynamics. The drag force (D) acting on an object is given by the formula D = 0.5 * ρ *
`V^2` * A * CD, where ρ is air density, V is velocity, A is the reference area, and CD is the drag coefficient. The reference area is directly related to the frontal area of the object. By having a narrow frontal area in an inline engine configuration, the reference area is reduced, resulting in a lower drag coefficient and, consequently, reduced drag force. This is a significant factor in enhancing the aircraft's performance, fuel efficiency, and overall aerodynamic characteristics.

In conclusion, the true statement highlights the aerodynamic advantage of an inline engine configuration in reducing drag and improving the overall efficiency of an aircraft. The streamlined design contributes to better performance and fuel economy, making it a favorable choice in aviation design.

Answer 2

An inline engine allows for a narrower frontal area in aircraft design, resulting in lower aerodynamic drag and improved performance and fuel efficiency.

Thus the statement is true.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement is true: the biggest advantage of an inline engine in an aircraft is that it allows for a design with a narrower frontal area, which results in lower aerodynamic drag.

This is akin to the design principles in automobiles, where aerodynamic shaping is critical for reducing drag force and improving gas mileage.

Similarly, in aviation, minimizing the aircraft's frontal area through the use of inline engines can lead to enhanced performance and fuel efficiency due to reduced resistance against the aircraft as it moves through the air.

Thus the statement is true.