GATE AE 2023 • Q47 MSQ • 2 Marks

Flight Mechanics & Space Dynamics

Atmospheric Flight Mechanics

Subtopic: Drag Polar & Aircraft Performance Equations

Question Statement:

Which of the following statement(s) about the elastic flexural buckling load of columns is/are correct?

Options:

  • (A) The buckling load increases with increase in flexural rigidity of the column.
  • (B) The buckling load increases with increase in the length of the column.
  • (C) The boundary conditions of the column affect the buckling load.
  • (D) The buckling load is NOT directly dependent on the density of the material used for the column.

Official Answer Key:

A, C, D

Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation

### **Official Solution & Step-by-Step Derivation (GATE AE 2023 Q.47)** **1. Governing Concept & Theory**: Governed by principles of **Atmospheric Flight Mechanics** (Aircraft Performance & Stability, 2 Mark, MSQ). **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 **A, C, D**. **3. Official Answer Verification**: - **Official Result**: **A, C, D** - **Evaluation Status**: Matches official GATE 2023 master key with 100% accuracy.

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