Cadet Competition Written Practice Exam

Which of the four forces of flight is artificial because it takes a mechanical device, like an engine and propeller, to generate it?

1. Lift

2. Drag

3. Thrust

4. Weight

The correct answer is: Thrust

Thrust is the force of flight that is generated by mechanical devices, such as engines and propellers. It propels the aircraft forward, allowing it to overcome drag – the resistance that opposes the aircraft's forward motion. Unlike lift, which is generated by the movement of air over the wings due to the shape (airfoil) and angle of the wings, or weight, which is the gravitational force acting on the aircraft, thrust relies entirely on external mechanical systems. This characteristic distinguishes thrust from the other forces, making it the only one that requires a specific mechanical component for its generation. Understanding thrust’s role is vital in aviation, as it directly affects the aircraft’s ability to ascend, maintain speed, and maneuver effectively in different phases of flight.