Question
A helicopter pushes air down, which, in turn, pushes the helicopter up. Which force
affects the helicopter’s motion? Why?
Air pushing upward affects the helicopter’s motion because it is an external force that acts on
the helicopter
Air pushing upward affects the helicopter’s motion because it is an internal force that acts on
the helicopter
The downward force applied by the blades of the helicopter affects its motion because it is an
internal force that acts on the helicopter
The downward force applied by the blades of the helicopter affects its motion because it is an
external force that acts on the helicopter
affects the helicopter’s motion? Why?
Air pushing upward affects the helicopter’s motion because it is an external force that acts on
the helicopter
Air pushing upward affects the helicopter’s motion because it is an internal force that acts on
the helicopter
The downward force applied by the blades of the helicopter affects its motion because it is an
internal force that acts on the helicopter
The downward force applied by the blades of the helicopter affects its motion because it is an
external force that acts on the helicopter
Ask by Bradley Higgins. in the United States
Mar 22,2025
Upstudy AI Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
Air pushing upward affects the helicopter’s motion because it is an external force that acts on the helicopter.
Solution
The helicopter generates lift by ejecting air downward. According to Newton’s third law, if the helicopter applies a force on the air, the air applies an equal and opposite force on the helicopter. This upward force from the air is external to the helicopter.
Let’s denote the force that the helicopter blades apply on the air as
Since this upward force from the air is due to the reaction to the force applied on it by the helicopter blades, it acts externally on the helicopter, causing it to rise.
Thus, the correct answer is:
- Air pushing upward affects the helicopter’s motion because it is an external force that acts on the helicopter.
Answered by UpStudy AI and reviewed by a Professional Tutor
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Simplify this solution Bonus Knowledge
The upward push of air against the helicopter is a direct result of Newton’s Third Law: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. When the helicopter blades push air downward, the air pushes back upward with equal force, providing lift. This lift is what allows the helicopter to ascend, descend, or hover in place, showcasing the power of aerodynamics in action!
In real-world applications, helicopter pilots must manage this lift carefully, balancing the upward force with weight and drag to achieve smooth flight operations. Factors like altitude, air density, and helicopter design all come into play, meaning that pilots often need to adjust their techniques to different environments. For example, flying in high altitudes requires increased awareness of decreased air density, which affects lift and overall performance!
