This chapter aims to provide you with an understanding of the physical principles that underpin the design and operation of modern aircraft and their associated structures and systems. The study of this chapter will also act as a suitable foundation for those who wish to embark on a higher education qualification, associated with aerospace engineering.
You will be introduced to the nature of matter and elementary mechanics where elements of statics, kinematics, dynamics and fluid dynamics will be considered. You will also study thermodynamics, light and sound.
After introducing units of measure and the fundamental principles of the subjects identified above, their application to aircraft structures and systems will be emphasized. For example a study of statics will enable us to consider, at an elementary level, the nature of the forces imposed on aircraft structures, due to static loading. A study of fluid dynamics will act as a suitable introduction to the study of aerodynamics, which you will meet later. Thermodynamic principles may be applied to cabin conditioning and refrigeration systems as well as to aircraft engine operation. Aircraft engineering applications related to light, optics, wave motion and sound will also be covered.
Each major section within this chapter covers the principles of the subject and then provides examples of problems that illustrate the application of this theory, to engineering situations and, wherever possible, actual aircraft engineering problems.
At the end of the chapter you will find a selection of typical multiple-choice of answer questions relating...
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