Question

question 8 of 10
there are a few different shapes of airplanes being considered in the design of a new airplane. one design would add protrusions to the wings (such as fuel pods, water tanks, and missiles) to give the airplane extra storage. which of the following is a likely drawback to this design?
a. the design would not be cost - efficient; the plane would require more fuel due to increased thrust from higher drag.
b. the plane would have more lift because of the extra protrusions.
c. the extra protrusions would make the airplane safer and more stable.
d. the design would be cost - efficient because drag on the airplane would be minimal.

Explanation:

Adding protrusions like fuel pods, water tanks, and missiles to airplane wings increases the surface - area exposed to air flow. This leads to higher aerodynamic drag. Higher drag requires the engines to produce more thrust, which in turn consumes more fuel, making the design less cost - efficient.

Answer:

A. The design would not be cost - efficient; the plane would require more fuel due to increased thrust from higher drag.