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Difference between revisions of "Common Questions and Answers"
Common Questions and Answers (view source)
Revision as of 05:29, 13 March 2022
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=== What is the benefit of a variable pitch propeller? === | === What is the benefit of a variable pitch propeller? === | ||
On a variable pitch propeller the angle of the blades can be changed – usually in flight. This is contrasted with a fixed pitch propeller, on which the angle of the blade is fixed. | On a variable pitch propeller the angle of the blades can be changed – usually in flight.{{efn|Some early variable pitch propellers were only adjustable on the ground. However, by World War II all or almost all of them were adjustable in flight.}} This is contrasted with a fixed pitch propeller, on which the angle of the blade is fixed. | ||
A variable pitch propeller performs much the same function as the transmission on a car, with each different angle being similar to a different gear. Therefore, flying an airplane with a fixed pitch propeller would be like driving a car with only a single gear. | A variable pitch propeller performs much the same function as the transmission on a car, with each different angle being similar to a different gear. Therefore, flying an airplane with a fixed pitch propeller would be like driving a car with only a single gear. | ||