weather theoryFAA-published question bank (Private Pilot, 2008)
How will frost on the wings of an airplane affect takeoff performance?
A
Frost will disrupt the smooth flow of air over the wing, adversely affecting its lifting capability.✓ Correct Answer
B
Frost will change the camber of the wing, increasing its lifting capability.
C
Frost will cause the airplane to become airborne with a higher angle of attack, decreasing the stall speed.
Explanation
Even a thin layer of frost roughens the wing surface and disrupts the smooth airflow, which causes early airflow separation, less lift and more drag; PHAK and AC 91-74B warn it can prevent the airplane from becoming airborne at normal takeoff speed. Frost does not usefully change camber, and it raises rather than lowers the stall speed.
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