Drone Pilot Practice Exam

As altitude increases, the air generally becomes cooler and:

1. More dense

2. Less dense

3. More humid

4. More turbulent

The correct answer is: Less dense

As altitude increases, the air generally becomes cooler and less dense. This phenomenon occurs because as you ascend into the atmosphere, the air pressure decreases, leading to a reduction in the number of air molecules present in a given volume. This is a key concept in atmospheric science and crucial for drone pilots to understand, as the performance of drones can be affected by air density. When the air is less dense, it means there are fewer air molecules to provide lift, which can impact the efficiency of the drone's propellers. Understanding this relationship helps pilots anticipate how their drones will perform at varying altitudes, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding flight planning. While other options might present related atmospheric conditions, the specific relationship between increased altitude and air density is foundational in aerodynamics.