Aircraft propellers: identify the correct propulsion description. Choose the statement that correctly describes how propellers produce thrust for aircraft flight.
Mechanical Engineering
Compressors, Gas Dynamics and Gas Turbines
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AThe propulsive matter is ejected from within the propelled body.
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BThe propulsive matter is caused to flow around the propelled body.
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CIts functioning does not depend upon the presence of air.
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Dnone of the above
Answer
Correct Answer: The propulsive matter is caused to flow around the propelled body.
Explanation
Concept/ApproachAn aircraft propeller accelerates surrounding ambient air (the propulsive matter) rearward, generating thrust by changing the momentum of the air around the aircraft. This depends on the presence of air.
Option checkA describes jet/rocket propulsion, not a propeller.B is correct for propellers: they act on the external air stream.C is false: propellers require air.
Final AnswerThe propulsive matter is caused to flow around the propelled body.