Why is frost considered hazardous to flight operation?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The question asks why frost is considered hazardous to flight operation.
Option provided: 'Frost causes early airflow separation resulting in a loss of lift.'
Consider the reasoning behind this statement: frost on aerodynamic surfaces disrupts the smooth curvature of the wing, roughens the surface, and breaks up the laminar-to-turbulent transition in an unpredictable way. This perturbation in the boundary layer can cause the airflow to separate from the wing surface at a lower angle of attack than normal, which reduces lift and can raise stall speed.
Additionally, frost adds a small amount of mass and creates an uneven profile, which further degrades aerodynamic efficiency. The combination of reduced lift, increased stall risk, and degraded handling qualities makes frost a significant safety hazard during takeoff, climb, and approach phases.
If frost forms on control surfaces or the tail, similar disruption of airflow can occur, compromising control authority and stability, and requiring more careful management or rejection of flight rather than attempting to operate with a frosted wing.
Note: Since no other answer choices are provided in the options list here, there is no basis to contrast this statement with alternative explanations within the given set. The analysis focuses on why the stated option is plausible as a hazard, given the aerodynamic and safety implications of frost on wings and other surfaces.

FA25: AVIA-62 Sec 01 - Instru Pilot Ground SU8/SU9: Weather & Weather Services Quiz SP25

Why is frost considered hazardous to flight operation?

View Explanation

Log in for full answers

Similar Questions

When can aircraft experience icing?

Which of the following is not needed for ice to accumulate on your aircraft?

Refer to the above G-AIRMET. What icing threat can you expect at the red dot?

Tailplane icing can be detected by a(n)

Test data indicate that ice, snow, or frost having a thickness and roughness similar to medium or coarse sandpaper on the leading edge and upper surface of an airfoil can

In a consumer society, many adults channel creativity into buying things

Economic stress and unpredictable times have resulted in a booming industry for self-help products

People born without creativity never can develop it

More Practical Tools for Students Powered by AI Study Helper

Homework AI Solver

Stylized AI Paper Writer

Plagiarism Checker Assistant

Citation AI Academic Writing Tool

In-Class Translation Assistant

AI Note Generator

AI Quiz Answers

Past Exam Questions from University Test Bank

Smart Practice Assistant

Adaptive Practice

Making Your Study Simpler