Define lift in the context of airplane flight. How is it generated?

Lift is the force that opposes weight, generated by the wings as air flows over them.

Explain the role of thrust in an airplane's motion. What part of the airplane generates thrust?

Thrust is the force that propels the airplane forward, generated by the engine and propeller or jet engine.

Describe drag and its effect on an airplane. What are some ways engineers minimize drag?

Drag is the force that opposes the motion of the airplane through the air. Engineers minimize drag through streamlining and smooth surfaces.

What is weight, and how does it affect an airplane's flight? How does lift counteract weight?

Weight is the force of gravity acting on the airplane. Lift counteracts weight by providing an upward force equal to or greater than the weight of the airplane, allowing it to fly.

An airplane is flying at a constant altitude and speed. Describe the relationship between lift and weight, and thrust and drag in this scenario.

Lift equals weight, and thrust equals drag. These forces are balanced, resulting in constant altitude and speed.

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Forces of Flight

Name: Forces of Flight
Author: Insta~Lesson

7th GradeScience45 min

Learning Objective

I can explain how lift, drag, thrust, and weight affect an airplane's flight.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

9 min

How do Airplanes fly?

Sabin Civil Engineering

Practice

14 min

7 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

“Name and describe the four forces that affect an airplane's flight when it is in level flight.”

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