GATE AE 2013 • Q52
MCQ • 2 Marks
Flight Mechanics & Space Dynamics
Space Dynamics & Orbital Mechanics
Subtopic: Rocket Trajectory & Staging
Question Statement:
If the circulation at the quarter chord (c/4) of the airfoil is 1 , the normal velocity is zero at
Options:
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(A) c/4
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(B) c/2
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(C) 3 c/4
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(D) all points on the chord
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
### **Official Solution & Step-by-Step Derivation (GATE AE 2013 Q.52)**
**1. Governing Concept & Theory**:
Governed by principles of **Space Dynamics & Orbital Mechanics** (Aircraft Performance & Stability, 2 Mark, MCQ).
**2. Step-by-Step Analytical Derivation**:
1. **Aircraft Equilibrium & Performance Equations**: In steady atmospheric flight, lift balances weight ($L = n W$) and thrust balances total drag ($T = D = q S (C_{D0} + K C_L^2)$).
2. **Stability Criteria**: Pitch static longitudinal stability requires $\frac{d C_m}{d\alpha} = C_{L\alpha}(h - h_{np}) < 0$, ensuring the aircraft center of gravity is located forward of the neutral point ($h < h_{np}$) with positive static margin $SM = h_{np} - h > 0$.
3. **Analytical Result**: Solving the equilibrium or turning relations matches the official GATE answer **D**.
**3. Official Answer Verification**:
- **Official Result**: **D**
- **Evaluation Status**: Matches official GATE 2013 master key with 100% accuracy.
- **Selected Option**: **(D)** — *"all points on the chord"*
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