GATE_AE_2027_MOCK_03_Q23
GATE 2027 Aerospace Engineering All-India Master Mock 03 (Flight Dynamics, Controls & Space Trajectories)
MCQ · 1 Mark
Flight Mechanics & Space Dynamics • Static Stability & Control • Directional and Lateral Static Stability
The aerodynamic derivative C_{n\beta} represents directional (weathercock) stability. For an aircraft to be statically directionally stable, C_{n\beta} must be:
(A) Strictly positive (C_{neta} > 0)
(B) Strictly negative (C_{neta} < 0)
(C) Strictly zero
(D) Equal to elevator power C_{m\delta_e}
Answer Key:
A
Step-by-Step Verified Solution
### Solution: A positive sideslip angle eta (wind from the right) must generate a positive yawing moment N (nose right) to align the aircraft into the relative wind, requiring C_{neta} = dC_n/deta > 0. Correct: A.