Which term is defined as the positive acute angle between the lateral axis and a line through the center of a wing?

Study for the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which term is defined as the positive acute angle between the lateral axis and a line through the center of a wing?

Explanation:
Dihedral describes how the wings are inclined relative to the aircraft’s body. The lateral axis runs from one wingtip to the other, and when a line through the center of a wing forms a positive acute angle with that axis (the wing tilts upward from root to tip), that angle is the dihedral. This upward tilt gives the airplane lateral stability; if you roll, the geometry causes the lower wing to generate more lift and help return the aircraft to level flight. The other terms listed are navigation or equipment terms and don’t describe wing geometry.

Dihedral describes how the wings are inclined relative to the aircraft’s body. The lateral axis runs from one wingtip to the other, and when a line through the center of a wing forms a positive acute angle with that axis (the wing tilts upward from root to tip), that angle is the dihedral. This upward tilt gives the airplane lateral stability; if you roll, the geometry causes the lower wing to generate more lift and help return the aircraft to level flight. The other terms listed are navigation or equipment terms and don’t describe wing geometry.

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