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What could be one result of exceeding critical Mach number?

A

Propeller stall.

B

Reduction in drag.

C

Aircraft control difficulties.✓ Correct Answer

Explanation

Beyond the critical Mach number, local airflow over the wing goes supersonic and forms shock waves; the FAA handbooks describe the resulting buffet, loss of control effectiveness and Mach tuck, all of which make the aircraft difficult to control. Drag rises sharply rather than decreasing, and a propeller stall is not the consequence of exceeding the airframe's critical Mach number.

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