According to the Bernoulli Principle, what causes an airplane to fly?

Study for the Avelo Airlines Flight Attendant Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Aim for success in your exam!

The Bernoulli Principle explains how the pressure difference created by the movement of air over the wings generates lift, which is crucial for an airplane's ability to fly. According to this principle, as the speed of airflow increases, the pressure decreases. The wings of an airplane are designed with a specific shape—referred to as an airfoil—that allows air to move faster over the top surface than the bottom surface. This difference in airspeed results in lower pressure above the wing and higher pressure below, creating an upward force known as lift.

While the other factors mentioned can influence flight dynamics, they don't directly explain why lift is generated according to the Bernoulli Principle. For instance, the fuselage's shape doesn't significantly impact lift in the context of Bernoulli. Similarly, while the engines provide thrust, which is essential for forward motion, it's the airfoil design and the subsequent airflow that create lift rather than just horizontal movement. Weight is a fundamental aspect of flight, as it must be counteracted by lift for an airplane to ascend or maintain altitude, but it does not contribute to the actual lifting force itself. Thus, the upward force resulting from the air movement across the wings is the primary reason that airplanes are able to fly, confirming the

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy