Certified Flight Instructor - Flight Instructor Airplane Practice Exam

What is a slotted flap?

1. A type of leading edge device.

2. A mechanism for increasing lift at low speeds.

3. A type of flap found on high-speed aircraft.

4. A flap with a slot that improves airflow over the wing.

The correct answer is: A flap with a slot that improves airflow over the wing.

A slotted flap is designed with an opening, or slot, along its leading edge that serves to improve airflow over the wing when the flap is deployed. This design allows for smoother airflow and helps to delay airflow separation, which contributes to increased lift at lower speeds. This feature is particularly beneficial during takeoff and landing phases of flight, where maximized lift and control at lower velocities are critical for safety and performance. While other options mention concepts like leading-edge devices, low-speed lift enhancement, and high-speed aircraft, they do not capture the specific function and design of a slotted flap as effectively as highlighting the slot that enhances airflow. In essence, the unique characteristic of a slotted flap—its slot—is what notably sets it apart from other flap designs and plays a crucial role in improving the aerodynamic performance of the aircraft.