Q11CQ - College Physics (Urone)

Question

Why is it preferable for airplanes to take off into the wind rather than with the wind?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

More lift can be achieved by taking off the airplane into the wind.

Step 1: Velocity

The rate at which an object changes its position is measured in velocity, which is a vector quantity.

Step 2: Design of the wings of the airplane

The wings of the airplane are designed in such a way that it creates an area of low pressure above the wing and relatively high pressure below the wing. the airplane can get a lift because of this pressure difference. 

Figure 1: Design of a wing of the airplane

Step3: Take off into the wind

When the airplane is taking off into the wind, the relative velocity of the wind is higher. This helps inflow air with a high velocity above the wing and thus creating a low-pressure area above the wing as per Bernoulli's principle. A better lift can be achieved with lesser ground speed by taking off into the air. Furthermore, the airplane can be controlled easily due to this lift.

Step 4: Take off in the wind

When the airplane is taking off in the wind, the relative velocity of the wind is lesser. To get a better lift, the airplane needs to increase ground speed so that air flows with greater speed above the wing and creates a low-pressure area. Taking off into the wind creates less lift hence it is not preferred. Furthermore, controlling an airplane with less lift is not safe.