If true airspeed equals the speed of sound in the same atmosphere, the Mach number is what?

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Prepare for the Airplanes and Aerodynamics Commercial Pilot Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

If true airspeed equals the speed of sound in the same atmosphere, the Mach number is what?

Explanation:
Mach number is the ratio of true airspeed to the local speed of sound. If the true airspeed equals the speed of sound in that same atmosphere, the ratio is 1.0, so the aircraft is flying at Mach 1.0. This is the sonic speed, marking the boundary between subsonic and supersonic flow. Remember, the speed of sound depends on temperature (and gas properties), so Mach numbers provide a consistent measure of speed relative to how compressible the air is, regardless of altitude.

Mach number is the ratio of true airspeed to the local speed of sound. If the true airspeed equals the speed of sound in that same atmosphere, the ratio is 1.0, so the aircraft is flying at Mach 1.0. This is the sonic speed, marking the boundary between subsonic and supersonic flow. Remember, the speed of sound depends on temperature (and gas properties), so Mach numbers provide a consistent measure of speed relative to how compressible the air is, regardless of altitude.

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