Rotorcraft Aerodynamics

AE536 Fall 2016 Prerequisites Quiz

Name:

Show all work clearly and in order. Use words and/or equations and/or sketches in your
answer as you see fit. You must earn a minimum of 80 points to pass.

1. (5 points) Write down an equation for the conservation of mass as it would apply
to a flow through a general control volume. Show how this equation is simplified for a
steady one-dimensional, compressible flow through a duct.
2.

(5 points) Write down an equation for the conservation of momentum applied

to an arbitrary control volume. Show how this equation can be simplified for a steady
incompressible flow.

3.

(5 points) Define the following in regard to a fluid flow: a) steady, b) inviscid, c)

irrotational, d) incompressible. Which of these conditions need to be satisfied to have
potential flow?

4.

(5 points) Write down the Bernoulli equation, briefly explain each term and state
any underlying assumptions under which it is derived. Where does the equation hold for
a rotational flow and where for an irrotational flow?

5.

(5 points) Explain how Bernoullis equation can (or cannot) be used for a flow with
energy addition.

6.

(5 points) Explain why Reynolds number can be interpreted as a ratio of inertial

effects in the flow to viscous effects.

7.

(5 points) Explain briefly the effects that free-stream Mach number and Reynolds
number have on the aerodynamic performance of an airfoil or wing.

8.

(5 points) Explain what is meant by a transonic flow, and illustrate your answer
with respect to the flow over an airfoil.

9. (5 points) Sketch a typical boundary layer over a flat plate (or a wing) in a free
stream with Reynolds number of about one million. Why do designers of aircraft care
about the boundary layer?
10.

(5 points) What are the two mechanisms that cause the creation of aerodynamic
forces and moments on a body in a flow?

11.

(5 points) Define the aerodynamic center and center of pressure as it would apply
to an airfoil section.

12.

(5 points) Define a streamline. Sketch the flow pattern around a two-dimensional

airfoil section at a) low angle of attack, b) high angle of attack, and c) a stalled condition.
Use streamlines for your illustrations.

13. (5 points) What are the two main consequences of the development of flow
separation on the performance of an airfoil?
14. (5 points) Sketch the typical variations of lift coefficient, drag coefficient, and
lift-to-drag ratio versus angle of attack for a two-dimensional airfoil section, including the
the post-stall regime.
15.

(5 points) Explain how the pitching moment on an airfoil is affected by the

thickness to chord ratio and by camber.

16.

(5 points) Explain how the variations of lift coefficient, drag coefficient, and
lift-to-drag ratio are affected by free-stream Mach number up to the transonic regime.

17.

(5 points) For an airfoil, explain what is meant by: a) Critical Mach number, b)
Drag divergence Mach number, c) Mach tuck.

18.

(5 points) Write down the equation of motion of a single degree of freedom massspring-damper system. What is the natural frequency of the system? What happens
when this system is excited at its natural frequency?

19.

(5 points) For a powerplant, explain the meaning of: a) Shaft torque, b) Rated
power, c) Specific fuel consumption.

20.

(5 points) For an aircraft, explain the meaning and significance of: a) Range, b)
Endurance, c) Best rate of climb.